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new 

Ireland 


DIONNE 


BY 

DESMOND 

/'• - 

II 


Angel Guardian Press 
100 Ruggles Street 
Boston 




Copyright, 1912 

BY 

ELLA BURNS 



©CU328894 


INTRODUCTION, 


One Christmas morning, in the fair and 
immortalized city of Florence, the bells of the 
duomo or cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore were 
chiming their joyous chorals . The distracting 
sound of footsteps of the throngs gliding up the 
marble aisles had ceased. The sun in golden 
radiance streaming through the stained glass 
windows illuminated the face of a girl seated 
near the side altar. 

The grandeur of the statues, the beautifully 
ornamented pillars, the refulgent gorgeous 
rays of light blazing forth from the magnifi- 
cent high altar, the delicate tints as they were 
reflected in the white marble and changed to 
many beautiful shades impressed and awed 
her. 

The altar-boys marching in solemn pro- 
cession as they sang the old Latin hymn, 

Adeste fideles Laeti triumphantes; 

Venite, venitein Bethlehem: 

Natum videte Regem angelorum: 

Venite adoremus, Venite adoremus, 

^ Venite adoremus, Dominum. 

gave her a living, active interest in the scene 
so old, yet ever new. 

Immediately in front of her was the repre- 
sentation of the Nativity. The matchless 


I 


beauty of the Virgin, the celestial Child, the 
reverencing and solicitous St. Joseph, the 
dark visages of the wisemen, the group of 
angels overhead, the lights and shadows of 
the daybreak in the sky, all influence her 
imagination and she is in Bethlehem nineteen 
hundred years ago. 

As she kneels, her heart is filled with grati- 
tude and rejoicing that warms and binds her 
sympathies to her fellow creatures, to aid and 
help them; but she feels helpless and unable. 
As she weeps and adores with a feeling which 
words could scarcely express, does the marble 
become animated? Does the Babe gaze with 
heavenly love upon her? Suddenly she feels 
the presence of a person grand and majestic, 
she sees a nimbus that radiates His brow, a 
white tunic and scarlet toga and beholds at her 
side the Saviour as she had often admired him 
in a beautiful painting. His hand held in bene- 
diction above her, descends and writes on her 
open prayer-book, “I am all powerful, through 
Me you will overcome.*' 


II 


NEW IRELAND 


CHAPTER I. 

Some twenty years before the event just re- 
lated, in the southern part of Ireland, stood 
a stuccoed cottage near the sea. Restless 
gulls flapped their shining wings as they circled 
and dipped in the rolling waves. The swelling 
canvas of a distant sloop glittered like glass 
in the sunlight. From the distant town sound- 
ed the Angelus. 

It was an evening in June. A gentle breeze 
from the sea stirred the jasmine and ivy that 
covered the cottage and shook the muslin 
curtains till light and shadow chased each 
other like waves across the room. Silence 
reigned supreme and the last rays of the set- 
ting sun rested softly on the bed on which a 
woman lay. Beside it stood a man with a 
child in his arms. The child reached out its 
tiny hands and said, “Mama sleep?'* As she 
received no answer, she threw her arms around 
her father's neck and repeated, “Mama sleep.*' 
He kissed the child and said, “Yes, Mama is 
in that sleep that knows no waking.'' At the 
other side of the bed stood a woman from 


1 


2 


NEW IRELAND 


whose dress it was evident that she was a 
nurse. She went toward the man and 
said, ‘‘Mr. De Claire, let me take Eileen. 
He gave her the child and left the room. 

In a few days, Catherine De Claire was 
laid in the quiet little grave-yard beside the 
little church, where four years before she was 
wedded to Donald De Claire, a thriving 
merchant in the town of Kinmoor. She had 
always been a delicate girl, but after the birth 
of Eileen two years later, she grew worse and 
the doctor advised the sea air. She did not 
improve and finally fell a victim of that 
dread disease, consumption. A few weeks af- 
ter the burial, Mr. De Claire took Eileen and 
her nurse Mamie, to live with an uncle, John 
Daly, her mother’s brother who lived on a farm 
some miles distant. The father spent Sundays 
and what leisure time he had with his little 
daughter. Thus one year passed. Then Mr. 
De Claire was taken sick with a fever which 
caused his death. So at the age of three, 
Eilen was bereft of father and mother and left 
in the care of her uncle, Mr. Daly. 

Mr. Daly had a daughter three years older 
than Eileen and a son one year older. The 
children got along together very well, especial- 
ly Edward and Eileen who often became truants, 
for Edward would coax her to the distant 


NEW IRELAND 


3 


hills to gather flowers and berries, often they 
fell asleep beside the way. Sometimes they 
went to the sea-shore to gather shells and 
watch the surging waves as they broke in 
music on the strand. All the children were very 
happy and enjoyed their quiet life and amuse- 
ments. Edward and Catherine were to enter 
school soon, and were delighted at the pros- 
pect. An unfortunate circumstance arose, how* 
ever, which changed their life. The farm 
which Mr. Daly occupied was large and was 
considered very valuable. It had been in the 
family for generations. 

About this time, unfortunately, another 
party had come into power and the ownership 
of much property was disputed and taken to 
court for settlement. Mr. Daly's farm met 
this fate. The contest was long and disheart- 
ening, more so since he was not in the good 
favor of the judge. So through injustice his 
opponents won. The money left to him for 
Eileen was spent in order to save the home. 
He knew he could use it and restore it in a 
short time if he won. All was in vain and 
the poor man lost courage. He returned 
home, home no longer. Every corner became 
dearer and dearer to him now. His heart was 
heavy. What was left to him and his family 
after all these years? Just a small pittance. 


4 


NEW IRELAND 


The old familiar scenes caused him too much 
pain to stay among them. He did not know 
what to do. Rethought, why not goto America? 
It seemed the only thing for him to do. Mrs. 
Daly was heart-broken and bewailed her sad 
fate. She blamed her husband for having 
been so easy-going. Why was her lot so 
hard; why had her people insisted on her mar- 
rying him; why should she have to leave her 
people and go to a strange land? This did 
not lessen her husband's grief. After all she 
was a woman of determination. She saw he 
was right so she took up her duty cour- 
ageously and began the preparations for the 
long journey. 

On a bright September day, Mr. Daly, his 
wife, and children bade a sad farewell to home 
and friends. After a few weeks they arrived 
in New York City. Mr. Daly had some 
friends living in the western part of the state, 
in the country near the small town of Algon- 
quin situated near the Tiber River. The 
travelers reached this town after a few 
day’s journey and were met by Mr. Carey, 
his friend, who had driven thither with a pair 
of horses to take them to his home a few 
hours’ drive distant. Mrs. Carey gave them 
all a hearty welcome and had a nice supper 


NEW IRELAND 


5 


prepared for them, which they thoroughly en- 
joyed. After a short time the children re- 
tired, for they were much fatigued after their 
long journey. The older people withdrew to 
the sitting-room where they talked over old 
times and home, for that is what the Celt al- 
ways calls Erin. 

The next morning was bright and cheerful. 
All were refreshed after the night’s repose. 
Breakfast over, Mr. Carey talked with them 
and requested them to remain until they found 
a place and as he knew the country, he said 
he would assist Mr. Daly in finding a home. 
The latter was despondent; but his friend told 
him not to be discouraged; that he would suc- 
ceed ; that in a few years the children would 
be able to help him. So after a few days, the 
two men went to look about and see what 
they could find in the neighborhood. Just 
what Mr. Daly wanted was hard to find. Af- 
ter a search of several days, Mr. Carey recall- 
ed that he knew a few miles distant a rich 
farmer who had a small place for rent. He 
asked Mr. Daly if they would drive over 
and see it. It was a small farm of about 
thirty or forty acres a little off the main road 
to the village. On it was a neat little cottage 
surrounded with maple trees. Behind the 


6 


NEW IRELAND 


house were the usual barns and farm build- 
ings, and farther back an orchard containing 
apple, pear and plum trees. There were also 
twelve cows and the milk was sold to a man 
living nearby, who had a milk route. Mr. 
Daly consented to go and after seeing the 
place, decided it was just what he wanted. 

The next day our friends drove over to see 
the farmer who lived with his maiden sister 
Hilda. Both were known as Uncle Hiram and 
Aunt Hilda. The latter was gathering flowers 
when the men arrived. Bidding her good- 
morning, Mr. Carey said he wished to see 
Uncle Hiram. She called her brother, to 
whom the men stated their business. The 
farmer said he wanted a tenant for the place 
as the man now on it was going away. He 
promised to think the matter over and let them 
know in a few days. 

When the men had driven away, Aunt Hilda 
and Uncle Hiram sat on the porch thinking. 
At last Uncle Hiram looking over his glasses 
said, ‘‘Well, Hildy, what do you think about 
letting the place to that man?** Aunt Hilda, 
who was very kind hearted, said that she liked 
the man*s appearance; that in some way he 
appealed to her very much; that it would be 
well to rent the place to him. 


NEW IRELAND 


7 


So the next day Unde Hiram sent for Mr. 
Daly to come over. He went taking his way 
across the fields which was much shorter. 
Aunt Hilda met him at the door and told him 
Uncle Hiram was in the sitting-room and led 
him to that apartment. After he was seated, 
the farmer informed him that he had decided 
to rent the place to him. Mr. Daly thanked 
him and was wished good-luck by Uncle Hiram, 
who said that others had prospered on the 
place and that he would too. While walking 
back through the fields, Mr. Daly felt much 
relieved at the thought that he had secured a 
home for his dear ones. As the brain is ever 
unconsciously drawing pictures, he sees an- 
other home in a country far away. Before he 
realizes it he is in the yard. Going directly to 
the house, he found Mrs. Carey and his wife 
in the kitchen getting dinner. Just then Mr. 
Carey and the children came from the field 
where they had been gathering corn. ‘Well^ 
what luck, John?*' he called out. ‘‘Excellent, 
I have secured the place." All were delighted 
and the talk at dinner was all about the new 
home. 

As furniture had to be purchased, Mrs. Daly 
and her friend went the next day to the village 
to buy the necessary articles. Catherine 


8 


NEW IRELAND 


being the oldest was told to take care of the 
other children. ‘‘Don’t let them get into mis- 
chief, especially Edward,” said her mother. 

“Be sure, Catherine, and don’t let them go 
near the yard where the lambs are. If they 
get out into the garden they will eat the vege- 
tables,” added Mrs. Carey. Catherine prom- 
ised to do her best. For a while Edward was 
very good, but at last curiosity got the better 
of him . He stole out and went over to see 
what the lambs were doing. Finding them 
asleep, he picked some grass and threw it to 
them, waking them up. While they were eat- 
ing it, he thought he would open the gate and 
see what would happen. He did so. Two or 
three rushed out so suddenly they threw him 
down. Before he could get up again, they 
were all running in different directions. The 
poor boy was really frightened. He called 
loudly to his sister and Eileen to come and 
help him get the animals back into the enclos- 
ure. The two girls came out and found some 
of the lambs in the garden. They did not 
know what to do. It was impossible to drive 
them back, but at last they coaxed them one 
by one into the barn. From here the children 
carried them in their arms back to the en- 
closure. 


NEW IRELAND 


9 


Then the three returned to the house rather 
tired after their struggle and race. Scolding 
Edward for having been so naughty, Catherine 
gave them the luncheon left prepared for them. 
Having finished, Edward asked his sister to 
permit him and Eileen to go to a brook near- 
by and catch fish. To this she would not 
consent, telling him he could play in the front 
yard. Here he stayed and amused himself 
with his cousin until his mother returned from 
the village. Mrs. Carey brought them oranges 
and candy, with a doll for Eileen. The mother 
asked if they had been good while she was 
away, to which Catherine replied that they had 
only that Edward had let the lambs out and 
that they had had a time to get them back. 
Mrs. Daly was grieved and said she could not 
trust Edward out of her sight. As no real 
damage had been done, Mrs. Carey said 
nothing. 

After dinner all talked about the purchases 
made; Mrs. Carey praising her friend's ability 
in selecting things and adding that she could 
not have done so well. Mrs. Daly replied 
that it was not so, and that she had to make 
her small amount of money cover all the things 
she needed. When the day's work was done, 
the men discussed farming. Speaking of the 


10 NEW IRELAND 

Great West, Mr. Carey said there were great 
opportunities out there for those who had 
money to invest. He had often thought of 
going there and trying his fortune but his wife 
would not hear of it. They were doing very 
well, she argued, as they had no children and 
had enough to keep them comfortably, she 
did not see the need of going among st rangers. 
Mr. Daly said she was right; that if he got 
on half so well he would be satisfied. 

The next few days were spent in arranging 
the new home and now it was time for the 
Daly family to bid good-bye to their kind 
friends. Mrs. Daly said they could never re- 
pay the kindness and hospitality shown to 
them. Mrs. Carey replied that she was glad 
of the opportunity and enjoyed helping them. 
She invited them to come over often and see 
her, saying that she would miss the children. 
While they were talking, Mr. Carey drove into 
the yard and called out that he was ready. 
Soon the family was on the way to the new 
home which was reached after a short drive. 

“Home at last,** said Mr. Daly on entering 
the house. The interior was like most houses 
in the vicinity, a hall with a room on either 
side and back of these the dining-room and 
kitchen. A staircase led from the hall to the 


NEW IRELAND 


11 


upper floor which was laid out similar to the 
lower, in cheerful, sunny rooms. A back 
stairs led to the kitchen below. While the 
older people went slowly from room to room, 
the children raced through the house up one 
stairs and down the other. It was home, their 
home, so they gave vent to their feelings of 
possession as only children can. 


CHAPTER IL 

Next morning all awoke with the feeling 
of contentment and happiness, for they were 
settled at last. The mother was busy giving 
the final touches to the arrangement of the 
furniture. Catherine helped her in various 
ways, washing the dishes, dusting, and doing 
such light tasks. Edward assisted his father 
by driving the cows to and from the field, 
by gathering the eggs and bringing in the 
wood. As yet Eileen was too small to help, 
though she was a willing maid eager to work 
but succeeding in doing more harm than good, 
breaking the dishes which she insisted on 
taking from the table like Catherine, or get- 
ting in other people's way. 

In a meadow just beyond the pasture there 
were many small stones which Mr. Daly 
wished to remove. He gave this task to Ed- 
ward who was helped by his almost constant 
companion, Eileen. They gathered the stones 
into a large pile. For some time Edward had 
been asking his father to let him go to some 
12 


NEW IRELAND 


13 


woods nearby as he had promised. Mr. Daly 
gave his consent, telling him to take his sister 
and Eileen along but not to stay too long. 
Catherine did not care to go. On the way 
Edward told his companion that Dick said 
there were Indians living in the woods. Dick 
was the son of their nearest neighbor, a lad a- 
bout Edward's age. Eileen made no reply. 
Silently they entered a large field through 
which ran a pretty brook. The road along 
this stream led to the woods. They had gone 
along this road for some time watching the fish 
jumping about in the water, when suddenly 
the little girl asked in a frightened voice if 
Edward was not afraid of the Indians, “They 
might be cross and unkind to us." 

“No such thing, no fear of that," he bravely 
replied. “Dick says they are nice and kind to 
everyone." Eileen was reassured and began 
to chatter gaily. After they had gone some 
distance, they sat down on the bank of the 
stream to eat some of the lunch they had 
brought with them. They threw some to the 
fish in the water. Edward said he would like 
to stay there and catch some if he were not 
so anxious to see the Indians. He would 
come again some other day for that. 

They continued their way along the brook, 
soon reaching the woods which were so cool 


14 


NEW IRELAND 


and shady that Eileen was delighted. The 
trees were straight and tall and the leaves 
beautifully colored. The autumn frost had 
turned them to crimson and gold. Still follow- 
ing the stream as the Indians were said to 
live near the water, they stopped here and 
there to gather nuts, leaves and ferns. At last 
they came to a clearing where they saw a gar- 
den and a very small house. This was the 
place, they thought. Outside was a woman 
digging potatoes. She was copper-colored and 
rather mannish in appearance. On seeing the 
children, she smiled at them and invited them 
to come in and rest awhile for they looked 
tired. They were somewhat afraid but thought 
it better not to refuse because she might get 
angry. She led the way, the two children 
followed in silence. They found themselves 
in rather a small room used as a kitchen 
containing a table cmd some chairs. Every- 
thing was very neat. 

As soon as her little guests were seated, she 
asked, “You hungry? I get supper. You stay, 
eat with me.“ Edward replied that they 
could stay only a short time. While talking 
she had been laying the table and soon they 
were seated round it. She was so pleasant 
and kind that the children forgot their fears. 
The autumn air and the long walk had given 


NEW IRELAND 


15 


them a good appetite so they enjoyed the 
supper very much . The woman asked them 
where they lived . When they told her, she 
smiled saying she knew the place very well 
and had often been there while the other people 
lived there . Edward and Eileen asked ques- 
tions in their turn, as children must. To one 
of these she replied that her husband, Mr. 
Fleetfoot, had gone fishing for the day. It 
was growing dusk now so after they finished 
eating she said she would not urge them to 
stay longer. She helped Eileen put on her 
bonnet and coat, offering to go part of the 
way with them. They were glad of that and 
told her so and how much they had enjoyed 
their visit. 

As they walked along, the Indian woman 
told the children that she and her husband 
had lived in the woods for ten years and that 
they liked it very much. They had built the 
hut, she said, and the shed for the cow and 
hens. They raised corn and potatoes and 
made baskets which they sold in the vil- 
lage. She promised to show them how a 
basket was made, when they came again. 
By this time they had reached the end of the 
woods, where the woman left them saying 
that now they would get home all right. She 
too had enjoyed their visit and asked them 


16 


NEW IRELAND 


to come soon again. They promised to do so. 

When the Indian woman had gone Eileen 
asked Edward if he really wasn’t afraid of 
the woman. “At first, I was,” he admitted, 
“and when she asked us in, I did not want 
to go but I did not want to displease her. You 
looked rather frightened though.” 

“I was,” answered Eileen, “but she was so 
kind and good I knew she would not hurt 
us. She isn’t a bit like the Indians in pic- 
ture-books.” 

“No, but I wish I saw her husband,” re- 
plied Edward. “Perhaps he is. Well, we 
may see him the next time.” 

Just then they saw Catherine coming along 
the road and hurried toward her. She was 
relieved to see them. She told them how 
worried they all got, when it became dark 
and they had not returned. 

“Mother was so uneasy she told father to 
go and look for you. There he is now at the 
door and Mama with him. Let’s hurry.” 
All three started to run home, Edward trying 
to explain why they were so late . 

“You don’t know whom we met in the 
woods,” he said to his sister. “Shall I tell 
her, Eileen?” 

“Why not?’' she replied. “It was lovely^ 
Catherine, but I was afraid.” 


NEW IRELAND 


17 


“Oh, I suppose you saw some wild animal 
and had a narrow escape with your life,*' said 
his sister. 

“We did not; we met an Indian woman who 
invited us to her hut and gave us a nice supper. 
Her husband, Mr. Fleetfoot, was away fish- 
ing. As it was getting dark, she came to the 
end of the woods with us. I wish you had 
been with us, Catherine.” 

“Yes, she was just lovely,” broke in Eileen. 
‘‘She helped me with my bonnet and coat. 
She knows our house. She often came there 
when the other people lived there. She 
wants us to come again. You must come the 
next time.’* 

“We*ll see what Mama says about it. 
What did shelooklikeand howwasshedressed?” 

“Just like any woman,” answered her 
brother. “She is very brown and more like 
a man than a woman. Her talk is very funny 
too.** 

They had now reached the house where 
their parents were waiting for them. After 
Catherine had explained why the children 
were so late, the mother said it was a wonder 
the wild woman hadn't done them some harm. 

“She isn't wild at all. Mama,” both cried 
out at once. “She was just as nice and kind 
as could be.” 


18 


NEW IRELAND 


‘Well, ril be glad when spring comes and 
you can go to school, Edward. Then TU 
know where you are for a few hours which 
will be a great relief to me,’’ she sighed. ‘T 
am thankful nothing happened to you, but 
you mustn’t do such a thing again. Come 
nowand have something to eat.” 

The children were not hungry so they just 
drank some milk and went to bed, for they 
were tired . Mr. Daly then informed his wife 
that while he was working in the field. Uncle 
Hiram drove up and told him there was to be 
a husking bee at his house that night. 
wanted them both to come. Aunt Hilda ask- 
ing especially for Mrs. Daly, but fearing she 
could not come because of the children. That 
was true. She bade her husband go and enjoy 
himself and tell Aunt Hilda how sorry she was 
she could not go. Then he looked at the clock 
and said, 

”I must start now or I’ll miss some of the 
fun. Bye-bye for a while,” and he was off. 

Catherine had been sitting by the fire and 
now her mother came and sat at the table , 
taking up her knitting. A small black kitten 
jumped into Catherine’s lap. Patting its 
glossy fur as it purred contentedly, she looked 
at her mother and said, ”Mama, I have been 
thinking of our old dog. Rover. He was such 


NEW IRELAND 


19 


a nice dog. I miss him very much. We 
ought to get a dog, Mama, for it doesn't seem 
like home without one.*' 

‘Terhaps we will later on, dearie. I have 
missed him too . Where is he now, I wonder. 
They had a hard time to take him away." 

As Catherine had now become very sleepy 
her mother sent her to bed, saying she was 
going too in a short time. 

The next morning at breakfast she asked 
her husband how he enjoyed the husking bee 
and whom he met. It was very pleasant, he 
said, and there was plenty of fun; but that he 
was sorry she was not there. Also that he met 
several of the neighbors, who inquired for her, 
and a nephew of Uncle Hiram. The young 
man had been brought up by the brother and 
his sister and had now returned with his 
wife and family to live there, as his uncle 
and aunt were getting old. Pointing to some 
cake and doughnuts which he had brought 
home, he said, ^‘Aunt Hilda insisted that you 
should have some share in the party." 

"That was very kind and thoughtful of her," 
replied Mrs. Daly. 

"So I told her. We had a long chat about 
the house and how we were getting along. 
She intended to come over and see you but 
she has been very busy. She has so much to 


20 


NEW IRELAND 


do in the fall, putting up pickles and preserves 
in preparation for the winter. She is through 
now and will be over soon.*’ 

Mr. Daly then started for the field while 
Edward drove the cows to the pasture. As 
usual Eileen accompanied him, Catherine re* 
maining to help her mother with the house 
work. The latter remarked that she won- 
dered why Mrs. Cary had not been over to 
see them. Just then she heard a wagon and 
looking out the window, she saw it stop at 
the gate. In it was the person she had been 
thinking of. Hurrying out she cried, ‘‘I am 
so glad to see you. I was just speaking of you, 
wondering why you hadn’t been over. John 
is in the field. I’ll call him to attend t the 
horse.” 

” Don’t call him. I am used to at ending to 
the horse. Jim could not come today and I 
thought that if I came alone I could stay 
longer.” 

‘‘You can take the horse to the barn or let 
him loose in the pasture,” suggested Mrs. 
Daly. 

“I’ll let him loose, if you don’t mind.’ 
While doing so she asked after all the folks 
and how they enjoyed their home. Mrs. Daly 
said all were well and happy and that after a 
cup of tea they would go through the house. 


NEW IRELAND 


21 


‘‘Why didn’t you come before?” she asked. 

“I couldn’t, my dear. 1 just had my hands 
full . Jim was sick for a week with a severe cold 
and was threatened with a fever. You know 
what men are when there is anything the 
matter with them. It took all my time 
caring for him. Just as he was getting better, 
the woman next door was taken sick. You re- 
member Mrs. Long, don’t you?” 

“Indeed I do,” answered Mrs. Daly. “She 
has five small children and is not a strong 
woman, anyway.” 

“Well, I felt sorry for them. They 
couldn’t afford a nurse so Mr. Long had to 
do everything. I thought it would help him 
a little if I got the meals and looked after 
the children.” 

“How in the world did you do it and 
with your own work too?” interrupted her 
friend. 

“You see I brought the children to my 
house during the day. They were very 
good and amused themselves in the yard. 
Then I sent Mr. Long his meals until he was 
able to leave his wife for awhile and come 
over and eat. She is able to be around again 
but I still take the children for awhile each 
day.” 

“How good you are, Mrs. Carey! God 


22 


NEW IRELAND 


will certainly reward you.** 

couldn*t help thinking of that man with 
five helpless children. What would become 
of them if the poor woman had died!** 

can easily pardon you for not coming 
over sooner. Now you*ll see the house.** 
Mrs. Carey was charmed with everything and 
praised her friend*s skill and taste. She then 
asked how they liked Uncle Hiram and his 
sister. ^We like him very much but I 
haven* t seen much of Aunt Hilda as yet. 
She is coming over soon and in the mean- 
time has kindly sent us over things.** 

‘‘You will find them very fine people, I 
assure you. By the way, have you heard 
about the church fair we are going to have?* 
“Not yet, no one has spoken to us about it.** 
“So I supposed. The people probably feel 
you have not been here long enough to con- 
tribute. They want me to take a table. I 
have always done so but I am too tired just 
now. Somebody else can take my place. 
Besides it is too much going back and forth 
to the village. 1*11 help the night of the 
supper.** 

“Do they have a supper at the fair?** asked 
Mrs. Daly. 

“Oh, yes, the night is set apart for that. 
Not only the parishioners and their families 


NEW IRELAND 


23 


come but also members of the other churches. 
You see good Father Coyle is liked by every- 
one. The supper is really a parish gathering. 
You must come and meet all the people.*' 

‘^ril speak to John about it. The trouble 
is that the girls need new dresses and I don't 
feel able to get any just now. The fair will 
not be for a few weeks, you say, so I'll think 
about it. Perhaps I can manage it." 

*^Try and do so, my dear," urged Mrs. 
Carey, ^*you will enjoy it, I know. Now I 
am going to ask a favor. After this week I 
want you to let Eileen come and stay with 
me for some days. It will be a little relief 
for you and a great pleasure for Jim and me. 
We would like to keep her all the time only 
John would not hear of it, I suppose." 

''No, indeed," said Mrs. Daly emphatically, 
"nor I either. I love the little girl as my 
own. She is no trouble at all though she 
does do everything Edward says. You can 
take her for a few days if she'll go without 
Edward. I can't let him go anywhere, he is 
so full of mischief. If only the school were 
not so far away! Then again the bad 
weather will soon be here and it wouldn't be 
worth while sending him before spring. There 
is some comfort in the thought that the cold 
weather will keep him indoors a good part 


24 


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of the time. Why yesterday he took Eileen 
for a walk in the woods. Where do you sup- 
pose they went?” 

''I am sure I don’t know,” replied Mrs. 
Carey. 

*'To visit some Indians. Just think of it!” 

Mrs. Carey laughed. * Why they are harm- 
less. Don’t have any fear about them if 
Edward does not tease them.” 

‘Just the same I’ll be glad when spring 
comes. It is a shame to shut him up for 
several hours but it will do him good. Eileen 
will miss him, as I don’t think I shall send 
her yet. It will be just as well to separate 
them now.” The mother gave a deep sigh. 

”She can come and stay with me off and 
on,” said Mrs. Carey. 'As it is getting late 
and will soon be dark, I think I had better 
start for home.” 

'Wish you could stay longer. Edward and 
Eileen will be sorry not to have seen you.” 
While speaking she accompanied her friend 
to the door and waited till she drove away. 


CHAPTER III. 


The cold winter months had passed and 
the Daly family were well and had enjoyed 
it much more than they had expected. 
Edward and Eileen were out in all kinds of 
weather and storms, but did not get to the 
woods to see their dusky friends. But a few 
days ago the snow having nearly all gone, 
they took a walk there and in a short time 
they saw a hut which however did not prove 
to be the Indians’ habitation. As they drew 
near they saw some one standing outside; it 
was Uncle Hiram. He said, “Good morning 
children, did you come to see what we are 
doing?” 

Edward, somewhat disappointed, said, 
“We came to see the Indians.” 

“Ah!” he laughed, “you better stay a 
while; we are making syrup. You see the 
trees have been tapped, and the sap flows 
into the pails. We gather it every day and 
bring it to this place called the sap-hut. 
Then it is boiled to a syrup, some of which 
25 


26 


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Aunt Hilda makes into sugar, and if you 
children come over some day she will give 
you some while it is still warm. I think I 
can find a dish and some spoons and I can 
give you some syrup now if you like/’ 

When they had taken it Edward said. 
‘‘Thank you, it is very nice.” 

Uncle Hiram did not forget the Indians. 
“When I was a boy, “he began, “I came 
here with my father and there were a great 
number of Indians here who were so savage 
that we had to secure our houses at night, for 
they would try to get in. They would climb 
on the roof and often threw stones and dirt 
so that we were in fear of our lives. In those 
days people had shell-horns and when they 
were in danger they would rush out and call 
their friends to their assistance. 

“One evening half a dozen got in; we did 
not kill any of them but got them out by 
threats. Because,” continued Uncle Hiram, 
“I felt sorely for the red men who had owned 
this land for no one knows how many years 
and although they had feuds and wars among 
themselves they really had many good traits 
and carried them out to the point. And no 
one could blame them for wanting to keep 
their hills and valleys when they lived so 
close to nature’s heart. For what are the 


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27 


civilized nations of today? Are they so much 
above the savage? Do they mete out justice 
to each other? No! Every nation must be 
guarded with soldiers and sailors, and each is 
always clamoring for more. Well,” said he, 
“my little boy and girl, I have been talking 
on a deep subject for you but when you are 
older you will know more about such matters. 
As Con has returned I will go home and you 
children had better come with me for Tm 
going by your place.” And turning to Con he 
said, “The syrup will be done in about one 
hour, ril leave the horse here, so you can 
bring the syrup to the house.” 

Then he started with the children. It was 
quite slushy for the sun was warm and had 
melted the remainder of the snow. Edward 
and Eileen did not mind for they had strong 
heavy boots. Uncle Hiram began again, 

“A long time ago there was a great number 
of wild turkeys, partridges, red and gray 
squirrels and other game in the woods.” And 
as they walked along beside a narrow stream 
he went on, “This was much wider and con- 
tained many large fish. Then many a pleasant 
time I had hunting and fishing; sometimes I 
go now but the game is scarce.” 

Edward remarked, “I should like to fish 
but I don’t think Td ever like to hunt. But 


28 


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rd like a nice pony. When I get old enough 
Tm going to work and get money enough to 
buy one. Tve been coaxing father to get me 
a goat but he thought you wouldn’t like it 
because they are so mischievous.” 

Uncle Hiram smilingly replied, know 
they are quite troublesome but I would not 
object to your having one. I am going to 
get one for my nephew and if you are a good 
boy I will get one for you too.” 

Edward squeezed his hand, saying, “How 
kind you are; I will try to be a good boy, but 
mother says I’m not.” 

As they approached the children’s home 
they met Mr. Daly, who stopped a short 
while and talked with Uncle Hiram while 
Edward and Eileen ran into the house. 

Then Uncle Hiram walked on toward his 
home. He went to Aunt Hilda’s room and 
found her darning stockings. She looked up 
and said, “You have stayed a long time.” 
Then she handed him the paper. He looked 
it over for a few moments and said, 

“I did not think it was so late, for I was 
having a pleasant time.” 

“Well,” questioned Aunt Hilda, “what did 
you find to interest you?” 

“You never could guess,” laughed Uncle 
Hiram, “I’ll tell you. I had some callers, 


NEW IRELAND 


29 


Edward and Eileen, two bright children. 
You can see yourself all the family are very 
nice.*' 

“I think so,” returned Aunt Hilda, “I am 
especially fond of Eileen. I told Mrs. Daly 
the other day I would like to adopt one of 
the girls and she asked me which I preferred. 
I told her Eileen. She smiled and said that 
Mr. Daly would as soon part with his life, 
for his sister had left her in his charge and he 
will care for her until she is old enough to 
take care of herself. She is a dear!” 

‘‘Why,” exclaimed Uncle Hiram, “you have 
a girl here. There is May.” 

“Yes,” Aunt Hilda assented, “I know; but 
I would rather have some one to manage and 
have charge of. I feel such a person would 
have more interest in me, and would be a 
pleasant companion. As for Flora and May 
I see but very little of them and never will.” 

“It would be the same with Eileen,*’ 
reminded Uncle Hiram, “she would have to 
be educated and brought up like other girls. 
Then you could not tell what course she 
would like to take. It is quite likely she 
would be like others, she would marry or seek 
some position to maintain her. For such 
girls are not usually indolent, they are inde- 
pendent and like to support themselves. 


30 


NEW IRELAND 


Then, too, I think it is rather late in 
life for you to think of such a thing. 
You reared Sam, who has been a great 
comfort to you and myself, and if his 
children are like him we can be very proud of 
them.” 

“Yes,” nodded Aunt Hilda, “he has been a 
dear good boy, and speaking about Eileen it 
would be impossible to get her and I do not 
care to take anyone else.” 

“The Daly children are going to school next 
week,” Uncle Hiram continued, “and I told 
them they should call here and have Dick and 
May go with them, for I know they dread to 
go. But they will not mind it so much if the 
children are with them.” 

When Eileen and Edward entered the house 
Mrs. Daly asked, “Well, Edward, where have 
you been? I thought you were playing near 
the barn, but when you did not come in I ask- 
ed Catherine where you were. She said that 
she did not know but thought you must have 
gone to the woods. I did not think of such a 
thing. Then when your father came in I ask- 
ed him if he knew. He said he guessed that 
you had not gone far.” 

“Well,” replied Edward, “I did not think I 
would go beyond the brook. When we were 
there a short time I told Eileen it was such a 


NEW IRELAND 


31 


fine day and it was such a long time since we 
had been for a walk that it would be just nice 
to go to the wood. But she said we had bet- 
ter go and ask you. I said we were half way 
there now and it would take so long to go back 
we might as well go on. So we went.*' 

His mother asked, “What were you doing 
there all the time? I hope you did not go to 
see the Indians. I know they do not want 
you to bother them.” 

“No,” replied Edward, “but we found 
Uncle Hiram. He was making syrup and ask- 
ed us to stay a while and we did.” 

“Well indeed you did and if he knew that 
you did not ask permission he would not 
think much of you.” 

“We did not intend to stay but he said he 
was going in a short time. He asked us if we 
had ever been to school. We told him we ex- 
pected to go next week. Then he told us he 
had some children at his home, a boy and a 
girl who go to school. He said the boy’s 
name was Paul and the girl’s name May. He 
told us we should stop and they would go 
with us; he thought it would be much more 
pleasant for us.” 

“It was very nice of him to tell you and I 
suppose it will be just the thing for you to do 
as I can not go with you myself. I thought 


32 


NEW IRELAND 


perhaps they would not care to go with you. 
They are rich and you are not.** 

And while she was talking she was getting 
supper. Eileen sat very quiet and had fallen 
asleep. 

Noticing her Mrs. Daly said, “The child is 
tired and I am not surprised, after walking so 
far in the slush and snow. I needed her as I 
am making some dresses for her to wear to 
school and I wanted to fit them on her as I 
had much time to sew to-day. Edward, 
waken her and have your supper, then I shall 
tell you how I shall punish you for running 
off.” 

Eileen was so tired and stupid she did not 
eat much. Edward also seemed to have but 
little desire for his supper, he was wondering 
how his mother was going to chastise him. So 
when he had finished he was told he could 
jiot go out to play the next day. 


CHAPTER IV. 

It was a bright Monday morning the first 
of April, Edward, Catherine, and Eileen were 
ready for the much dreaded school day and 
having bade good-bye to mother the trio 
were on their way. Catherine said they would 
walk fast, for they had quite a distance to 
go and they must not be late the first day; it 
would be very disagreeable. She hoped the 
Earle children would not go and leave them 
for she would dread to go alone. And soon 
they were at Uncle Hiram’s. The children 
were just coming out of the house. Aunt Hilda 
stood in the door-way. She said, ‘T am glad 
to see you,” and as they started off she added, 
‘‘You must all be good.” 

They went across the fields, which road was 
much shorter and very pleasant, as it lead 
over hills and brooks. 

When they reached the school May led them 
to the teacher who was very kind and thought- 
ful. She asked them their names and ages 
and where they lived. Then smiling she said, 
33 


34 


NEW IRELAND 


**I will now find you seats/* When all were 
seated she told them her name was Miss Brown 
and added, “ I hope we shall be good friends 
and you will like school/* 

Looking around them the children saw a- 
bout twenty boys and the same number of 
girls, all sizes and ages from five to fifteen 
years. Many seemed a little nervous and ex- 
cited but some of the older ones already con- 
sidered themselves full-fledged in school 
matters and were thinking of the time now so 
near at hand when they would finish their 
education in an academy. 

When all were in order the teacher talked a 
short time about the arrangement of the 
classes and about the lessons, and the chil- 
dren began their studies. Soon some of the 
lessons were recited, then they had a short 
recess. After this the studies were resumed 
until noon. When all had eaten their lunch- 
eon, each engaged in some sport and thorough- 
ly enjoyed himself. The new pupils were 
somewhat timid but all were very kind to 
them. 

The afternoon session was begun by the 
teacher reading a few pages from a book that 
contained some good morals. And after mak- 
ing a few remarks about their duty to her and 
to each other, she told them to continue the 


NEW IRELAND 


35 


lessons they had started in the morning. It 
seemed but a short time when the work for 
the day was done, and having bade the teach- 
er “good night“ they started off in groups, 
each going his own way. The Earles, as 
they were termed, went with their new com- 
panions. 

May asked them if they liked the teacher . 
They quickly answered “Very much.” 

Paul said, “She looks very nice, but if you 
are disorderly or do not get your lessons she 
will be anything but nice.” 

Edward asked, “What will she do?” 

“Oh, she will punish you in some way; she 
seldom uses the ruler but I would prefer it 
to some other things.” 

May interrupted, “It is her work to see 
there is order and you must expect to have 
your lessons. Do you think it would be right 
for her to let you waste your time?” 

“No,” admitted Paul. “But once in awhile 
she ought to let me off and I think she often 
frightens me and is the cause of me having 
such poor lessons.” 

“I do not think the teacher is to blame,’’ 
answered May, “for you do not put your mind 
on your studies, you are thinking and planning 
about sport and fun. I am sure she never says 
anything to me about my lessons.” 


36 


NEW IRELAND 


‘^Oh,” sneered Paul, **you know just howto 
manage her.** 

May smiled and said, ‘‘She knows how to 
manage you.** 

The long walk tired Eileen, who walked very 
slowly, but Edward and Paul waited for her 
and helped her over the brooks. 

The boys talked about what they would do 
in the summer. Paul said, “I had a good time 
during the winter but I like the summer time 
much better.** As they had reached Uncle 
Hiram*s they parted, saying, “We*ll see each 
other in the morning.** 

As the Daly children walked toward home 
Edward said, “I think Paul is a fine fellow. I 
wish I were a big boy like those in school.** 
“What would you do?** asked Eileen. 

Just then Edward saw his father who was 
driving the cows into the barn. He ran to 
meet him, and after talking a few moments he 
wen t into the house with Catherine and Eileen . 
When they entered they were surprised to find 
Mrs. Carey there and she was preparing the 
supper. They all kissed her and said they 
were very glad to see her. 

She kissed them in turn, saying, “You poor 
dears, you must be tired and hungry after 
your long day at school.** 

Catherine looked about searchingly, then 
asked, “Where is mama?** 


NEW IRELAND 


37 


‘‘Upstairs, my dear,” she answered smiling, 
and as they started running toward the stairs 
she picked up what seemed to be a bundle of 
clothes, exclaiming, “See! I have brought 
you a little sister.” 

All were surprised and crowded around her. 
They looked long at the wee creature and 
Eileen said, “It looks like a doll.” 

When all were satisfied Mrs. Carey said, 
“Now you may see your mama for a little 
while, but you must be very quiet.” 

The next morning all were anxious to see 
the little sister and wanted to know her name. 
Mother said, “I think I shall call her Louise.” 

“Do,” said Catherine quickly, “we all love 
that name.” 

“All right,” laughed their mother, “now run 
to school. You know it is a long way and 
you wouldn’t like to be late.” 

They waved their hands and called “Good- 
bye” as they started down the stairs. 

The day at school was much the same as the 
day before. Also the days following passed 
away quietly until two months had gone and 
vacation was near at hand. But before that 
came a great event was to take place. The 
children were to have a picnic, and all were 
to take active part. It was to be not only 
a matter of amusement but also a test of 


38 


NEW IRELAND 


their abilities. The older children prepared 
orations and compositions and the younger 
prepared recitations and short songs. All 
were very busy getting ready for the occasion, 
and the time sped quickly. Soon everything 
was in readiness for the picnic which was 
to be held in a maple grove near the school. 

July second, the day appointed for the 
festival, rose clear and bright. The grove 
was filled with people from all parts of the 
country. The pupils all marched from the 
school to the platform which was screened 
and made up as a stage. The exercises began 
with the singing of the national hymn, which 
was loudly applauded by all. Then came the 
ndividual selections; each child did his part 
very well. When all was over the teacher 
thanked the people for coming to the picnic 
and for showing such interest in and appreci- 
ation of the children’s work; and did not forget 
to thank the children for their patient efforts in 
making the affair so pleasant. 

Then the children marched to the long 
tables and were served with refreshments* 
Soon they finished and gave place to the 
older people, who helped themselves, congratu- 
ating the teacher on the success of the day. 

While they were eating, the platform had 
been cleared and now all who wished enjoyed 


NEW IRELAND 


39 


themselves dancing until late in the evening. 
But nearly all the school children bade each 
other good-bye and went home with their 
parents. 

Next morning Paul came over and asked 
Edward if he would go with him to the lake 
which was a short distance away, adding; 
* ‘We’ll take some lunch, and have a jolly good 
time.” Edward went to his father and asked 
if he might go. 

He said, “Yes, but you must come home in 
time to bring the cows from pasture.” 

As they walked along Paul said, “I have a 
boat on the lake; Uncle Hiram gave it to mef 
I have some fishing rods too. Do you like to 
fish?” 

Edward replied, “I have never tried to fish 
but I think I should like it. Yet I love the 
fields and the soft grass, it is such fun to walk 
and run through it. Paul,” he asked earnestly, 
“do you think you will always live on a farm> 
even after you are grown up?” 

Paul answered rather quietly, “I have never 
thought what I shall be. But mother says 
that I must not be a farmer. She thinks it is 
a dull, droning life. She would like me to be 
a doctor. I shall decide later.” As they had 
reached the lake he proposed, “Let us have 
some lunch!” 


40 


NEW IRELAND 


When they had eaten enough, they got into 
the boat, rowed out a short way and began to 
fish. Paul said, “We must be very quiet or 
they will not bite.” 

They were quite successful catching several 
good-sized fish. As it was time for Edward to 
go and bring the cows he said, “I have enjoy- 
ed the outing very much, Paul, it was my first 
attempt at catching fish . I am glad I got 
some.” 

“I am too,” added Paul. 

So they parted for the day. 

In a short time Edward was in the field 
where the cows were, driving them home, 
Eileen came to meet him saying, “Catherine 
and I have been picking berries.” 

As he saw her looking at his pail he said: 
“You can’t guess what I have.” 

She guessed, “Apples?” 

“No.” 

“Pears?” 

“No.” 

Then she looked in and exclaimed, “Fish 1 
How nice they look! But were you not 
afraid of them? I could never take them 
off the hook. Catherine will be much sur- 
prised, she will not believe you caught them.” 

“Well, do you think I didn’t?” asked 
Edward. “You should have been there, but 


NEW IRELAND 


41 


if you had been you would have screamed 
at the first one you saw and would have 
frightened them all away.” 

“Then you were glad I was not with 
you,” said Eileen. “I missed you all day 
and wondered if you were having a good 
time. But I see you did.” 


CHAPTER V. 

As vacation was nearly ended Mrs. Daly 
wished to go over to see Mrs. Carey and take 
the children, saying, have promised to vis- 
sit her all summer. Last Sunday I was speak- 
ing to her in church and she said very em- 
phatically that she would not come here un- 
til I had been there. She thought I did not 
care to go, and if there is any place I like to 
go, it is there. Pm sure. It is pleasant this 
morning so I think we had better go.” 

^Catherine, you help get Edward and 
Eileen ready.” 

All were eager to go, each helped the other 
and soon all were ready and on their way. 
They enjoyed the drive very much. 

Mrs. Carey was delighted to see them, say- 
ing, ^‘Well you did manage to come.’’ 

The two women chatted for a short while 
then Mrs. Carey turned to the children and 
said, ”Go into the orchard, children, you 
will find seats there where you can rest and 
cool off, for it is much cooler there than in 
the house.” Turning to Mrs. Daly she added, 
42 


NEW IRELAND 


43 


^‘Wouldn’t you like to go with them, for I 
am cooking dinner?’^ 

She replied, ‘^No indeed! I should rather 
stay and talk with you, and perhaps I could 
do something to help you/’ 

‘^Since you are so willing,” laughed Mrs. 
Carey, 'Til let you set the table.” 

Before they realized it they were eating a 
well-cooked dinner, which consisted of roast- 
beef, potatoes, corn, tomatoes and apple-pie, 
milk and jelly. 

Edward said, as he took up his glass of 
milk, "Eileen, do you remember the first day 
we came here? How tired and queer we felt! 
And didn’t we enjoy the bread and milk! 
It makes me sick now when I think of the 
milk we had on the steamer.” 

His mother interrupted him sharply, "Stop 
talking and eat your dinner. You can never 
be quiet.” 

When they had finished Edward asked 
Eileen and Catherine, "Will you come with 
me to pick up the apples that have fallen?” 

Mrs. Carey began to clear away the table 
but did not let it interfere with her conver- 
sation with Mrs. Daly. "I was in town 
yesterday and was talking to a Mrs . Moore 
who is president of the Aid Society at the 
church . She said that they would like to 


44 


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come here next week, that it would be a very 
nice outing for them . I should rather not 
have them, but could not refuse. I never 
go to their meetings . I give what I can af- 
ford and I sew for them at home. ” 

Mrs. Daly inquired, **Are there many 
poor in the parish?' ' 

**Just now," she replied, ‘^there are several 
families who need some assistance. The rea- 
son is they were all employed in a steel fac- 
tory and for some unknown cause it is clos- 
ed. It is said that there is no work, evident- 
ly on account of some political affair. But 
those people said nothing about wanting any 
aid; we thought it very hard for them to 
manage." 

am surprised that they have not a little 
money to keep them for a while," said Mrs. 
Daly. ^As a rule the Irish save a little of 
their earnings." 

*‘1 know," said Mrs. Carey, as she stop- 
ped working on a piece of lace she was mak- 
ing. suppose they would have too, but 
a few years nearly all of them purchased some 
houses and they are trying to pay for them." 

"Well," returned Mrs. Daly, "in what way 
does the society help them?" 

Mrs . Carey resumed, taking up her work 
again, "As they have small children we make 


NEW IRELAND 


45 


clothes for them. Also we make aprons 
and other small articles . One of the ladies 
gave a room where we keep them." 

“But how do you arrange about selling 
them?" 

“The room is kept open only during the 
evening. One of the girls who belong to the 
Society has charge of it each night. We 
have made quite a large sum of money. 
All the ladies of the town have taken much 
interest in it and purchase nearly all the ar- 
ticles. They like our fancy work and lace 
especially. This piece I am making is an 
order from one of them.” 

Mrs . Daly, who was sewing on a small 
dress paused, looked at her and said, “It is 
very handsome but it is enough to blind one 
to make it and I often wondered how those 
old women in Ireland could work on it for 
yecirs. But then they were so anxious to 
make a shilling, the hardship did not seem so 
great to them. You should see the many 
different patterns Eileen’s ninse could 
make, and she did them very quickly. She 
was very good about helping me make 
the children’s clothes. She made all of 
Eileen’s . Such a dear, good soul, how much 
I should like to see her! She would have 
been so glad to come with us . It nearly 


46 


NEW IRELAND 


broke her heart to pare from Eileen . But 
as her health was very poor she thought it 
unwise to come to this country for she felt 
it would be very hard to make a living here . 

I often thought it was very sad that she could 
not come and remain with us, but I knew it 
was impossible. We wrote to her when we 
arrived and she answered the first letter, but 
we have not heard from her since, and it is 
some time now. Perhaps she is sick. She 
spoke of having a brother who lived some dis- 
tance from us and I think she went to stay 
with him for a time.^’ 

As she stopped her work and sat back 
Mrs. Carey said, ^^Does Eileen ever speak of 
her?” 

“Not as much as she did. For a while she 
was homesick and would cry, saying, ‘I am 
going back to my home and Mammie. For 
a long time after her father’s death, too, she 
was always asking for him. She could not 
understand why he would not come to her. 
It made me feel very sorry for her, because 
he was very kind and gentle with her. She 
is a strange child, yet she is very good and 
seldom would get into mischief if it were not 
for Edward. I know I am rather severe with 
him sometimes but it is the only way I can 
get him to obey. But that would never do 


NEW IRELAND 


47 


with Eileen. One must be very gentle with 
her. She is very fond of Edward and has 
taken much care of the baby. She is always 
wanting to rock her. ” Glancing at the clock 
she said much surprised, “It is time for us to 
go home.” Looking out she did not see 
Edward and Eileen, so she went to see where 
they had gone. 

She looked about the orchard and called 
them. Receiving no answer she stood for a 
moment and heard voices in the distance. 
Walking a short way she saw someone on 
horse-back coming toward her. As the per- 
son drew near she discovered it was Edward. 
Before he could reach her he had to cross a 
small bridge over a brook. As the horse was 
blind and had to be driven by his mane, 
when Edward, frightened at seeing his mother, 
released hold the poor animal became be- 
wildered, turned quickly and all fell into the 
brook. Mrs. Daly hastened to assist them 
out of the water. They were very wet, but 
fortunately they were not injured . 

Just then Catherine came, as she could not 
imagine what they were doing. Her mother 
told her to lead the poor horse out of the 
water into the pasture. Turning to Edward 
she said, “I’ll have to punish you severely. ” 

When they reached the house Mrs. Carey 


48 


NEW IRELAND 


was astonished to see the water dripping from 
their clothes and thought they must have 
fallen into the brook. 

“Yes, they have," said Edward’s mother, 
“but you have no idea how it happened." 

Having told her what Edward had done she 
added, “I am heart-broken with him. I do 
not know what clothes they can wear, for I 
shall have to take these off." 

The other woman smiled and said, “He is 
no worse than other boys. He has done no 
harm, but he is a little too daring. I think I 
can find some clothes for them." 

In a short time she returned saying, “I 
have some things for Eileen, but I can not 
find any trousers for Edward.” 

As Mrs. Daly had taken off his wet gar- 
ments, she said, “I’ll try to find a skirt and 
waist for him.” 

Edward began to cry. “I don’t want to 
be a girl,’’ he whined. 

His mother said, “You must as there are 
no other clothes. It serves you right for not 
behaving." 

Mrs. Carey stood looking at him for a 
while, then she said, “I have an old pair of 
Mr . Carey’s trousers . I will cut them and 
get them on you, so you can go home, for 
they will not be noticed when you are in 


NEW IRELAND 


49 


the wagon . ” Catherine and Eileen laughed 
at him, saying, “You look like the clowns 
we saw in the picture book.” 

Mrs. Carey watched them drive away 
until they had passed out of sight. 

When they reached home Mrs. Daly said, 
"It will be a long time before I shall take 
Edward any place again . He was so trying 
that he upset me completely.” 


CHAPTER VI. 

Ten years have come and gone since the 
Daly family had come to live at Tribe's Hill 
and when they had been there about five 
years, Mr. Daly purchased the place and had 
nearly finished paying for it. The children 
went to the schoolhouse in the valley, and as 
they became advanced, left and went to the 
village school. It was quite a distance to go 
and required much time and hardship during 
the winter months to come and go, so Mr. 
Daly rented a small cottage for them. Cath- 
erine and Eileen did the work before and after 
school and the little sister Lou, who had 
grown to be quite a large girl, aided them. 
Edward worked in an office evenings and Sat- 
urdays for a man who was a coal dealer. 
During vacation all went to the country. 
Edward assisted his father with the various 
kinds of work he had to do. Catherine and 
Eileen helped Mrs. Daly with her work and 
made nearly all their clothes for the coming 
year. 


60 


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51 


In a few years all had graduated from the 
High School. The girls and Edward still con- 
tinued to live together in the cottage. Cath- 
erine decided to study to be a teacher, so took 
a course in the Normal School. When she 
had finished she got a plea^iant position in 
the village without a great deal of trouble. 
She seemed well fitted for the work and was 
successful and liked by all. Louise procured 
a position as book-keeper in a dry goods store. 
Although it did not seem just what she wish- 
ed to do she said, ‘T'll work at it awhile.” 
As someone had to care for the household af- 
fairs, Eileen took that charge. The coal 
dealer whom Edward had worked for took 
him in partnership in the business. All 
were much interested in their work and very 
happy. Catherine was fond of society and 
took much interest in the literary societies of 
her town. Louise took music and paint- 
ing. Eileen, when she had leisure, was al- 
ways found with a book of a kind worth the 
time she spent on it, and usually either his- 
tory or political economy. 

E^ch had his own friends but Eileen and 
Louise were together much of the time. They 
were unlike in disposition; the former was 
quiet and enjoyed solitude, the latter was 
restless and unsatisfied and often told Eileen 


52 


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she was dull and uninteresting. To this 
Eileen said nothing but thought, “Perhaps I 
am.” Still she could not bring herself to 
condemn herself. For however quiet and 
untroubled she seemed, she really was always 
thinking and was very anxious to do some- 
thing beside her housework, although she en- 
joyed it. She often thought of writing a short 
story for a magazine or a paper. During her 
leisure time she finally wrote and had nearly 
finished a short story, when Louise discover- 
ed it. She read it, and looking rather scorn- 
ful said, “You are very silly, Eileen, spending 
your time in such a way.” Close on to this 
many of their friends came one after the other 
to see them and Eileen had no time for her 
literary work. 

Nevertheless she did not forget it. For 
while fulfilling her everyday dudes she often 
realized how little she knew about her people. 
In fact she did not even remember them. 
Sometimes her aunt, Mrs. Daly, would 
speak about her father’s people, saying that 
they were rich, but giving her the impression 
that they were somewhat degenerate. Her 
attitude and Eileen’s complete ignorance 
helped her to romance and kept her always 
thinking. 

Thus two years passed without any special 


NEW IRELAND 


53 


change and as each had a few wedcs’ vacation 
Eileen usually went into the country with her 
uncle and aunt . 

But this summer she had promised to visit 
a friend of hers who lived near Saratoga . So 
one morning about the first of July Eileen 
was ready and went to the station to take the 
train to her friend’s. 

Grace White, for that was the name of 
her friend, met her and after greeting her 
cordially, said, “As father was busy I drove 
for you . ” 

Eileen enjoyed the drive very much, for 
the place was picturesque and appealed to her. 
It was quite late in the afternoon when they 
arrived at her friend’s home. In a short time 
they had dinner and as Eileen was tired Grace 
said, “Let us talk awhile . I know you would 
like to retire early, for riding in a train is 
tiresome.’’ Eileen smiled and said» “Yes, 
you know my failing.’’ 

Next morning after breakfast they drove 
to town . Grace pointed out all the principal 
hotels and residence. Seeing some highly 
colored posters she remarked, “The races are 
on for the season, would you care to go some 
time before you leave?’’ 

Eileen enthusiastically returned, “Yes, I 
should enjoy it very much . ” 


54 


NEW IRELAND 


Having spent a week with her friend she 
was looking over the pap ^r one morning when 
she was attracted by an advertisement for 
a maid. She read it through twice then 
paused, reflecting on the details of the re- 
quirements. At last she decided she would 
see the lady, for she thought she would like 
the position. 

As if to strengthen her in her determina- 
tion Grace appeared at that moment saying, 
^‘Eileen, I shall be busy for a few hours. 
Would you care to drive to town with 
father?’’ 

^‘Yes,” Eileen replied, ‘‘I should be delight- 
ed to for I have a few errands to do.” 

“Father will have to stay down there a 
couple of hours, dear, so that will give you 
plenty of time,” Grace assured her while she 
helped her put on her hat and coat. 

When they arrived in town Mr. White 
told her where he would meet her and both 
started off on their business. 

She went to the hotel and found the lady, 
whose kind manner and attractive appearance 
relieved much of her anxiety. She was young, 
about twenty-four or five, tall a^ i slender, 
very light and good looking. 

As soon as they were seated Eileen began, 
' 1 read your advertisement for a maid in the 


NEW IRELAND 


55 


morning paper and I thought I should like the 
position/' 

Miss Douglas asked her several questions 
about herself and what kind of work she had 
been doing. Then she explained the position 
more fully than in the short advertisement. 
At last she said, ‘T think you are just the 
person I should like; could you come in a few 
days?" 

Eileen said, “Yes, it will be convenient for 
me to come in about three days, as I must 
get my clothes ready . " 

When she reached the place appointed 
Eileen had to wait some time for Mr . White . 

When he arrived he said, “I hope you 
are not tired waiting, you seem to have fin- 
ished first." 

“Not in the least," replied Eileen. 

On the way home Mr. White was very 
pleasant and interesting . He told her many 
things that had happened down town, and 
the drive seemed very short. As they ap- 
proached the house she found Grace sitting 
on the porch . 

When they were alone Eileen told Grace 
what she intended to do. Grace was much 
surprised and exclaimed, “You will be very 
lonesome. But," she sighed, ‘V^u know your 
own affairs, perhaps it is best." 


56 


NEW IRELAND 


That evening Eileen wrote to Catherine 
telling her intentions and closing with “Per- 
haps it will seem rather strange but I think 
it will be better. You know sooner or later 
I shall be thrown on my own resources and 
I think it is best to start now. 

“I hope no one of you will mind my going 
or be at all upset. Do not think I have 
taken a dislike to you, for it is not so. 
I love you all and I loved our little home . 
But I felt for some reason, I don’t know 
just what, that I ought to take the course 
I am taking . I know Lou will enjoy the work 
and looking after the household affairs. If 
I am not successful I shall return to you, if 
you are stUl willing, and help in whatever 
way I should to make us all comfortable and 
happy . 

“Again I ask you do not be distressed 
nor worried about me. I shall write to you 
often and hope you will find time to write 
often to me,’’ 


CHAPTER VII. 

The three short days were over. It was al- 
ready the morning for Eileen to take leave of 
her friends. She awoke earlier than usual, for 
in spite of her strong determination not to 
let her feelings interfere with her duty she had 
been restless and nervous all night. Now 
when the bright July sun lighted her room 
she became fully conscious of the step she 
wcis so soon to take. She arose quickly, 
hastened to the window to see if the sky 
was clear or if clouds were rising in the dis- 
tance. Having assured herself that the day 
would be pleasant, she took down her pret- 
ty, fresh muslin dress and soon was ready 
for breakfast. As she still had time to spare 
she quietly collected her things from the 
bureau and closet and packed them away 
neatly. When she at last went down stairs 
all was ready for her departure. 

After breakfast, while her friends were still 
assembled she bade them all good-bye and 
xeceived many sincere wishes for success and 
57 


58 


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happiness. Grace accompanied her to the 
carriage with many cheerful suggestions for 
the future and urgent requests for visits and 
letters. 

When she reached the hotel she was at 
once taken to Miss Douglas, who received 
her kindly and told her of the arrangements 
made for her comfort. Looking at her more 
closely than she had been able during their 
first interview, Miss Douglas saw that her 
maid was a young girl of scarcely medium 
height, of slim figure, which gave her a child- 
ish appearance. Her face, oval, with large 
gray eyes, shaded by heavy drooping lashes, 
held a singular fascination. Her mouth, 
curved in lines of perfection, was impulsive 
and self- reliant, while the broad full fore- 
head, with its prominent brow, could not 
fail to attract the attention of a more casual 
observer than herself . Almost instantly she 
realized it was a serene, strong face, which 
once seen impressed itself on the mind never 
to be forgotten . The beauty of the 
whole was set off by her deep auburn 
hair, the mahogany tints of which harmo- 
nized with the damask of her cheeks . 

While noting her features and dress Miss 
Douglas explained to Eileen what she was ex- 
pected to do, ending with, ‘1 do not think you 


NEW IRELAND 


59 


will find your work too difficult, for I wanted 
you chiefly as a companion. I am rather lone- 
some here away from my relatives and inti- 
mate friends. You see my home is in England, 
My people usually come with me, but this 
year when they were nearly ready to take the 
journey mother felt she could not endure the 
ocean voyage and it seemed just what I 
wanted . My maid was very sea sick and 
when we arrived here was rather weak and ill. 
As she had a sister in this country who was 
married she went to stay with her.” 

Eileen was soon busy at her new duties. 
She liked her work very much and had time 
to sew and read, yet she felt lonely and 
homesick for a few weeks. 

Miss Douglas was very kind and had driv- 
en her out to see Grace several times. As 
the weather was mild and pleasant Miss 
Douglas remained until the last of October . 
Then she and Eileen went to Italy to 
spend the winter. They found much to in- 
terest them in the different cities, especially 
Eileen . 

It was about the last day of May and 
Miss Douglas said, ‘T have intended to go 
to Ireland for some time but one thing 
or another has kept me from going. 
Just now I do not see anything to prevent 
me. 


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So they purchased their tickets and bade 
adieu to sunny Italy. They had a very pleasant 
voyage and it was about the first of June 
when they arrived in Queenstown and found 
the journey from there to Cork very pleasing. 

There were various kinds of beautiful trees 
entwined with ivy . Blue-bells and primroses 
bloomed in profusion . The furz, which was 
a beautiful shade of yellow, completely cov- 
ered the fences and gave a very pleasing 
effect with the peculiar shade of the green 
grass . The calm, placid waters of the river 
Lee flowed majestically as if conscious 
of the beauty of its position and thorough- 
ly satisfied in its possession. Nature itself 
seemed to sing praises to the place . 

At Cork they took the train for Glengariff 
which they found no less beautiful than the 
country between Queenstown and Cork; in 
fact it was far more wild and romantic, with 
its tangled woods and its jagged rocks touch- 
ing the bay. Just across the bay a short 
distance from a small town stood the house 
which had been the property of Mr. Daly; 
there Eileen had lived with him. She was 
anxious to go and see the place. After 
dinner, as she had some leisure time, Miss 
Douglas told her she might go over there if 
she wished . When she reached the opposite 


NEW IRELAND 


61 


side she was in the town Kinmoor. There 
she made some inquiries concerning the exact 
position of the old home. She found the 
road, and after walking some distance she 
caught sight of the house . As she drew near 
she saw a woman in the door-way. She spoke 
to her very kindly and asked, 

“Won’t you come in?” 

“Thank you,” said Eileen, “I will.” 

When they were inside the woman offered 
Eileen a chair saying, “You look tired, won’t 
you sit down and I will bring you some 
milk?” 

Fatigued from her long walk, Eileen sank 
into the chair, telling the woman who she 
was and why she came . 

“I have heard of the family,” said the 
women, “I knew your nurse. She often came 
here and was always talking about you and 
the other children, always longing to see you 
all again. About three years ago she was taken 
sick. I went to see her. As she thought 
she would not get well, she told me to bring 
her a small box that was in her trunk. She 
took it and said, ‘This contains something 
which Eileen’s mother wished her to have 
when she grew up. When the family went 
away I did not give it to them for I thought 
they were too upset. As they had to go 


62 


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here and there I thought they would lose 
it. It seemed I must see the dear child a- 
gain and could give it to her. Now I feel 
I shall never see her in this world again. I 
have lost her address/ she said, ‘so I will 
give it to you and perhaps some time you 
will be able to give it to her . ' 

“I took it and said I would do all I could 
to fulfil her wishes . 

“In a few days she passed to the better 
world. She was a dear good creature.” 

Going to a cupboard that was in the room 
she took a small box and gave it to Eileen . 

^‘Thank you very much,” said Eileen- “How 
kind you are to guard it all those years. 
I can never recompense you as I should like 
to, but you must accept what I can give.” 

am only too glad to be of any service to 
you,” said the woman. “I cannot accept any- 
thing; I never thought of such a thing.” 

“You must,” insisted Eileen. “I shall feel 
much better if you do.” 

The women took the preferred money hesi- 
tatingly. 

“Thank you,” said Eileen again. “I must 
go now.” 

“Are you sure you can find your way to 
the road?” asked the woman, “I will walk 
through the fields with you.” 


NEW IRELAND 


63 


They both started off, the woman opened 
the gate and turning toward the right pointed 
out a short cut to the highway. 

“Oh,” said Eileen, ‘‘I can find the road 
easily now. Do not trouble yourself to come 
with me. I hope I shall see you again some- 
time. Good-bye.” 

“Good-bye,” said the woman, but she did 
not go in. She stood watching Eileen until 
a sharp turn in the road took her out of sight. 

It was very hard for Eileen to conceal her 
feelings. When at last she was alone she 
wept tears of joy and sorrow; of joy at hear- 
ing again of her beloved Mammie and re- 
ceiving a box left by her own mother, but 
tears of sorrow when she thought how it 
must have been for her uncle to leave his 
old home . She thought also of others whose 
fate had been the same and even harder, and 
a feeling of anger began to rise within her 
at those who had been the cause of so much 
unnecessary misfortune. 

And before she was aware of it, she was 
at the dock. It was high tide. The bay 
was calm and serene, glittering like a sheet 
of emerald. The sky was a deep blue and 
the golden sun was setting o’er the hills of 
Glengariffe . The sail was very invigorating 
and she felt quite buoyant as she walked to 
the hotel. When she had taken supper she 


64 


NEW IRELAND 


went to her rooms and sat down to examine 
the box. It was a common, unattrac- 
tive case made evidently of match wood 
slightly thicker than the ordinary and the 
surface smoothened and rubbed . There were 
no hinges nor locks . The cover was 
attached to the back with a simple binding 
of stiff green cloth; the other three sides 
merely rested on the box, and a small flat 
hook screwed into the cover had been slip- 
ped into a small hoop fastened on the front 
of the box. She searched closely for marks 
or writing but there were no inscriptions 
anywhere. 

Her hand trembled as she pulled the tiny 
hook and slowly raised the cover. She 
took out a plush jewel box and opened that. 
Inside she saw a gold watch and chain, a 
pair of bracelets, two rings — one a plain band 
of gold, the other set with rubies, and a 
email purse of money . Underneath them all 
she saw a square of white paper. It prov- 
ed to be an envelope with ‘‘Eileen” in a 
woman’s handwriting across one side- 

Taking out the letter she read, 

“My dear little girl: 

“I must leave you soon. If you live to 
grow up you will have no memory of me, 
and perhaps you will sometimes think and 


NEW IRELAND 


65 


wonder what I was like and whether I was 
very fond of you. Yes, I was, and it is the 
hardest thing that could be for me to leave 
you. But if your father is spared to you 
I know that he will strive to have you 
brought up and trained as I would . If he is 
not we must trust in Providence. Perhaps 
too you will wish to know something about 
your father's people. 

‘^Your grandfather, that is your father's 
father married against his father's wishes, 
which in a way proved to be unfortunate for 
him . Not but that your grandmother was 
his equal, for she came from one of the good old 
families. But as some old feud existed be- 
tween their people his father was very much 
displeased. Being the only son and heir to 
his estate his father said he would disinherit 
him. 

‘*Soon after your grandfather, whose health 
was very poor, went to Italy and remained for 
some time. But he did not improve. He re- 
turned only to die a short time later. Some 
months after his death your father was born. 
His mother's people who had been wealthy, 
lost nearly all their possessions and she had 
but a small allowance for herself and son. For 
the father carried out his threat and did not 
leave one penny toward the support of your 


66 


NEW IRELAND 


father. Having disinherited your father also, 
he willed his property to the next of kin. As 
there were no claimants it remained untouch- 
ed . Your father was heir to an earldom and 
your father’s right name was O’Brien. On 
account of the attitude of his paternal re- 
latives he went by the mane of De Clare ; it 
was his mother’s name and had been given to 
him as a middle name. He was called Donald 
De Clare O’Brien. His mother had died 
when he was a mere infant and he had been 
brought up by a nurse, who always called him 
De Clare. He was almost grown up before he 
knew that O’Brien was his right name. So 
he left it as it was, De Clare . He was very 
interested in the welfare of his country and 
was anxious to aid it in securing its rights.” 

”A1I this is of no benefit to me,” thought 
Eileen, ”yet I am glad to know something 
about my people . ” 

For some time she sat holding the letter 
and thinking of her mother. Then came 
the thought of Erin and the sad condition of 
the people. But what could she do to aid 
them? ”I have no wealth nor possessions to 
offer them,” she thought, ”I will write a 
book.” Still the thoughts came to her that 
she was not strong, that she could not work 
and write . Her work was not so laborious 


NEW IRELAND 


67 


as some but the writing would take a long, 
long time. Of course she could go home, as 
she called going to Catherine and Edward, 
but they would only laugh at her . Why not 
take the money her mother had left? 


CHAPTER VIII. 

A long night’s rest and sleep had refreshed 
Miss Douglas after her tiresome train ride 
and she was eager to begin her tour of 
Glengariff. They secured a guide who took 
them to Cromwell’s bridge; the one he built 
when pursuing some of the O’Sullivans, then 
to an ancient abbey which overlooked the 
bay. The guide pointed to the spot where 
a large Celtic cross had been erected in 
memory of some of the victims of the famine, 
who were buried there. There were several 
vaults. As they looked over them, the guide 
said, indicating a particular one, ‘‘There 
Donal Crome, one of the O’Sullivans was 
buried. Just after their wedding his bride 
was stabbed to death by one of the English. 
In some way he escaped to another part of 
the castle where he disguised himself as a 
friar and waited for the assassin. When he 
met him, knowing he had him where he could 
revenge himself, he inquired of the way to 
the master of the house. Before the wretch 


68 


NEW IRELAND 


69 


could reply he fell lifeless at Donars feet. 
Donal then escaped by jumping from the 
tower and swimming across the river. 

They drove on to Dunmark which must be 
most interesting to all celts for it is the 
historic spot where the first of their race the 
Milesians landed. This was the last place in 
the vicinity which demanded a visit so they 
returned home for the day. 

When next day they took up their travel 
they went directly to the pass of Keimaneig. 
This wild gloomy place impressed them deeply 
and before they were well through the thought 
of the lakes they would soon reach cheered 
them in their loneliness. The Lakes of 
Inchigeela are formed by the expansion of the 
river Lee and present a fine scenery, as on 
the island in one of these lakes is a ruin called 
the hermitage of St. Finian who was the first 
bishop of Cork. Further on are the ruins of 
Marhanaglass Castle erected by Owen 
M'Levinly. One mile more brought them to 
Macroon. The town is prettily situated in 
the valley Salllni. Its only object of attrac- 
tion is its castle which must be highly interest- 
ing to all Pennsylvanians, as it was the birth- 
place of Admiral Penn, the father of William 
Penn. 


70 


NEW IRELAND 


From there they took a train to Cork. At 
Cork they took a steamer to Aghada to see 
the castle Rastellen which was the former 
residence of the princely O'Briens, Marquises 
of Thomond. In the modern residence, which 
is beautifully situated in the eastern end of 
the harbor, is kept the ancient sword of the 
famous Brian Boraihme. He was ancestor 
of the O'Briens. A short distance away is 
Cloyne. It is an ancient cathedral built in 
the fourteenth century and its round tower 
is one of the antiquities of Ireland which was 
used for a double purpose — for a belfry and 
a place of defence. 

They were soon back in Cork. It is a city 
of ancient origin. The principal public build- 
ings are the cathedral of St. Finnbar. The 
church of St. Anne is remarkable for its 
magnificent position commanding a fine view 
of the whole city. Its bells are one of the 
finest of the city. The church of Holy 
Trinity is a handsome Gothic building, in- 
teresting from the fact it was founded by 
Father Matthew who had done so much in 
the cause of temperance. There is a fine 
monument erected to him on St. Patrick 
Street. St. Patrick's cathedral is very hand- 
some. 

In the city there is also a fine park border- 


NEW IRELAND 


71 


ing on the river which is about one mile long 
and shaded by fine elm trees forming a beau- 
tiful arch overhead. When lighted at night 
it presents a very charming appearance. 
The groves of Blarney are about six miles 
from the city. The noted castle was long 
the residence of the younger race of M'- 
Carthys. On the riverside the guide pointed 
out the place where its defendants poured 
down molten lead on the heads of Cromwell's 
followers. A short distance from the castle 
is the lovely little lake of Blarney, to which is 
attached a tradition. It is said that McCar- 
thy, earl of Clancarty, whose property was 
confiscated during the revolution threw all 
his family plate into the lake at a certain 
spot. That the secret was known only to 
three of his descendants at a time. That 
before one dies he communicates it to another 
of the family. The secret is to be religiously 
kept until one of the descendants again be- 
comes possessed of the property. 

The situation of Yaughal is exceedingly 
beautiful. The house in which Sir Walter 
Raleigh lived when he was chief magistrate 
of the town in 1588 and where he entertained 
Spencer while that poet was preparing his 
‘Tairie Queene" for publication. It has been 
but recently torn down. A luxuriant growth 


72 


NEW IRELAND 


of arbutus and many other shrubs ornament 
the garden, where the first potato was once 
planted in Ireland by Sir Walter. And here 
for the first time the air of Hibernia was 
scented with the aroma of tobacco brought 
from Virginia. 

From there they continued to Limerick 
situated on the Shannon River, eighty miles 
from the Atlantic. Its most interesting spot 
is the cathedral which dates from the twelfth 
century. An excellent view can be had from 
the tower. About the bells of this ancient 
tower a pathetic story is often related. 
They are said to have been the work of an 
Italian artist, who had made them for a con- 
vent during the wars between Francis I . 
and Charles the Fifth. In this war he lost 
three of his sons. The music of these bells 
was his only consolation during his melan- 
choly hours. For some reason the bells were 
sold and sent to distant countries. Sad and 
dejected the old man set out in search of 
them. After many years of wandering he at 
last, one evening, took a boat for Limerick 
and as he landed the bells rang out for prayer. 
The sudden joy was too much for him and 
before the last strain had died away he had 
joined his sons in a more just and peaceful 
world. 


NEW IRELAND 


73 


From there they went on to Killarney. 
Eileen and Miss Douglas took a drive to 
Muckross Abbey which as it now stands was 
founded by Donal M’Carthy Mor, Prince 
of Desmond, in thirteen thirty. It is one 
of the finest ruins in Ireland. It was built 
for the Franciscan friars and the chiefs of 
the country selected burial-places for them- 
selves in it. The founder erected a tomb in 
the choir of the abbey where with many of 
his posterity after life’s race is run he sleeps 
the sleep of the just. 

Leaving, they took a boat across the lake 
to Innisfallen. It contains the ruins of an 
ancient abbey supposed to have been founded 
in the sixth century. It is very picturesque 
and pleasing but has lost much of its former 
beauty. On the way to Ross Castle in the 
boat the guide pointed to a rock which had 
been used for a prison in ancient times. 
They passed Ross Island which contains 
various kinds of beautiful trees. 

Again they reached the dock. Miss Dou- 
glas had gotten out. When Eileen was 
about to step out in some way the boat tipped 
and she would have fallen into the lake but 
just then another boat had rowed beside 
theirs. Into this boat she fell sprawling 
awkwardly across the side seat. She was 


74 


NEW IRELAND 


quickly seized by the occupant, who soon 
had her sitting comfortably in the boat 
much embarrassed but entirely uninjured. 
She thanked him sincerely but in a few, low 
words. When she had recovered from the 
shock of her fall he helped her out of the boat, 
handing her carefully to Miss Douglas. 
Then he jumped out himself. They were 
still laughing and chatting about the accident 
when they reached the coach waiting to take 
them to a hotel. Here Eileen and Miss 
Douglas learned that their new friend was 
going to the same hotel as they. All got 
into the coach, Eileen and Miss Douglas 
sitting on one side and their friend opposite 
them on the other. While Miss Douglas and 
he discussed the beauties of the country and 
the places of interest, Eileen sat quite still 
saying only a few words once in a while. 
As the others became more and more inter- 
ested in their conversation Eileen began to 
take more notice of her rescuer. 

He was tall, stately and impressive in 
appearance, and although seemingly scarcely 
more than thirty his dark thick hair, which 
laid in masses over his broad, full brow was 
slightly silvered. Hisfacewas smooth-shaven . 
His features were regular, almost perfect, 
and could have served as a model of a Grecian 


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God. The dark blue eyes, which might have 
been mistaken for black, were made still 
more beautiful by the artistic line of their 
dark brows. The mouth, somewhat large, 
was well formed and gave a genial appearance 
to the face. 

When they came to the turn they took the 
road leading to the lodge nearest the city for 
this brought them to the hotel more quickly 
than the others. When the coach stopped 
the young man assisted both women out, and 
each went to his apartment to prepare for 
dinner. 

While Eileen assisted Miss Douglas the 
latter said, '1 am much attracted by that 
young man who was so kind to us today. 
I think he is fine looking and his manner is 
very courteous.’’ 

Eileen answered, ^^You could not think 
otherwise of him. I was so bewildered I 
hardly knew what I was doing, but he took 
it all in such a nice way.” 

When Miss Douglas had finished dressing 
she went down to the dining-room. Eileen 
then went to her own room and sank into a 
big rocker. She was so fatigued from the 
traveling and excitement of the day that she 
decided to have her dinner brought up to her. 

When she had eaten she went to Miss 


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Douglas’ room. As she was not in Eileen 
thought she would go for a short walk and 
went out the side door and down the walk. 

As she passed the ball-room the orchestra 
was playing and many were enjoying them- 
selves dancing. 

Having walked on a little further she was 
startled by some one stepping up beside her, 
raising his hat and saying, ‘‘Good evening.” 

She looked up and saw the young man of the 
afternoon. 

‘‘The hotel seems stuffy and close,” he 
said, ‘‘so I came out for a walk.” 

‘‘Why aren’t you enjoying yourself in the 
ball-room,” she asked. 

‘‘I did not care for the dance this evening,” 
he answered nonchalantly. Then more earn- 
estly he said, ‘‘I have not learned your name. 
After the episode at the boat I hope you will 
not deem it impudent of me to ask it. As I 
did not see you in the dining room at dinner 
time I thought perhaps you had received 
some injury in your fall this afternoon.” 

‘‘It was kind of you to think about me,” 
said Eileen. And as there was no reason why 
she should avoid him or keep him a stranger 
she told him her name and also her relation 
to Miss Douglass, thus explaining the turn 
of fate that had unexpectedly brought her 
to Ireland. 


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Taking his case out of his pocket he handed 
her a card saying, ^This is my name, but I 
fear you will not be able to read it by moon- 
light so I shall tell you. I am Gerald 
Brien. I was born in Cork on one of our old 
family estates.*’ 

‘^Have you more than one?”asked Eileen* 

''Yes,”he answered, ‘^there was another 
which came in an indirect way. The right- 
ful heir had been disinherited and it was un- 
claimed for years. In looking the matter up 
it was found that the will did not conform to 
the conditions of the previous wills and there- 
fore could not be legal. The heir is dead but 
it seems he left a daughter and it is not known 
whether she is alive or not. If she is alive, 
although she cannot claim the estate, she is 
entitled to a large sum of money.” 

‘^Do you think you will find her?” asked 
Eileen, trying not to appear too interested. 

‘Terhaps.” 

‘And then you will both fall in love, marry 
and live happily forever after.” 

He smiled and said, “I doubt it, but I am 
sure I want her to have the money. I do 
not know where to look for her. I have spent 
most of my life in England coming here off 
and on, for I like this country, it has a peculiar 
attraction for me.” 


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He paused a moment, then asked, you 
intend to stay here long?’* 

am not sure how long we shall stay,” 
she answered, ”but I expect it will be some 
time.” 

While they were talking they had walked 
some distance from the hotel and now Eileen 
expressed a desire to return, as she wished to 
retire early in order to refresh herself for her 
travels of the next day. 

As they turned to retrace their way, Gerald 
asked, ^'Where are you going in the morning?*' 

”I do not know,” she answered, ”Miss 
Douglas has not told me her plans.” 

In a short time they reached the hotel and 
entered the hall. Eileen bade Mr. O'Brien 
good-night and went up to Miss Douglas* 
room. 


CHAPTER IX. 


The next morning Miss Douglas told Eileen 
“Mr. O’Brien is well known by some English 
people who are stopping here at the hotel and 
they say he has a thoroughly good character 
and liked by every one, but some people think 
him eccentric because he is often quiet and 
thoughtful and on the whole very reserved.” 

After breakfast Miss Douglas prepared to 
go out saying, “Some of my friends and I 
are going for a drive, if you care to come, 
Eileen, I should be glad to have you, but if 
you prefer to do something else you may.” 

“Thank you, Miss Douglas,” said Eileen, 
“but if you do not need any assistance from 
me I should like to go for a walk.” 

“Go by all means,” answered Miss Douglas, 
“I shall not need anything before we return 
this evening.” 

Eileen brought her hat and wraps and 
taking her own accompanied her to the door- 
way. There she stood watching them all get 
into the coach and drive away. Then she 
79 


80 


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started on her walk to the woods. When she 
reached an attractive spot she sat down and 
opened her book. Before reading she glanc- 
ed around at the many beautiful trees and 
bushes about her. Soon her thoughts went 
back to the subject, dearest of all subjects 
to her, the alleviation of the sad fate of the 
country. 

She was so engrossed in her meditation she 
did not hear approaching footsteps until 
some one said, ^^Solitude again?” and Mr. 
O’Brien stood before her. 

She smiled, saying, ‘And you?” 

^‘Oh, I am always alone,” he answered. 
*‘May I sit down with you?” 

“If it will give you any pleasure I cannot 
refuse.” 

“Your thought or dreams must have been 
very interesting,” he said jokingly. 

“They are realities that are only too true,” 
answered she seriously. “I was thinking how 
grand and beautiful it is here and then I 
was saddened by the thought of the condi- 
tion the people are in.” 

“Why is it you care for this country,” he 
asked, “and have such a keen sense of its 
wrongs? Is not that grand and famous 
country on the other shores of the deep blue 
sea the one you love and cherish?” 


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she replied, “and when I look at 
the stars and stripes I think of the noble and 
brave who gave their lives for it. But it 
does not lessen my love for poor old Ireland.^* 

Both were silent and thoughtful for a 
moment. Mr. O’Brien as he was gathering 
a bunch of rhododendrons which Eileen had 
laid on the grass beside her, said, “Would 
you care to walk down to Ross castle?” 

Standing up she said, “I should be delight- 
ed to.” 

As they were walking toward the old ruins 
of the historic place, Eileen drew his atten- 
tion to the battlements, saying, “They were 
very well for ancient times but I think they 
are very barbarous for civilized nations. 
Men never seem to get over their savage 
customs and just now there is a great deal 
of talk about more battleships.” 

“How are disputes going to be settled,” 
questioned Mr. O’Brien, ''by arbitration? 
Sometimes there is no time for that. Take 
a revolution. What is to be done then?” 

Without hesitation, she replied, “As a rule 
there has been time to consider those. For 
in those cases it was one part of the people 
demanding justice from another part and 
they usually expressed their desires and were 
refused before they revolted. And I think 
they did right to revolt.” 


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‘*I hardly think I can discuss the matter 
as I have not seriously interested myself in 
politics.’' 

‘'If you did would you do it for the real 
benefit of your people or for yourself?” shyly 
asked Eileen. 

He looked at her and smiled, saying, “I 
have not considered the matter. That would 
depend.” 

“Take this country. Would you not work 
for the people?” 

“Yes, but I do not think I could do much 
toward helping them. Time will eventually 
give them their own government. Until then 
there can never be much improvement.” 

“I agree with you. But even then their 
improvement will depend on how they use 
their self-government. For if it were grant- 
ed to them tomorrow it would take them some 
time to get it into practical working order. 
But I know they would work hard, for it 
would animate them to have their own gov- 
ernment, especially if they had a leader who 
was thoroughly interested in them. The cry 
is that Ireland cannot rule itself. It did in 
the past and I see no reason why it cannot 
now. You would say that all would want 
to rule, as the government would be a 
rep blic. All would rule, for every man 


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would have a voice in making the laws. 
Now they are made by men who force them 
on the people, and they are not for their 
benefit.” 

They had reached the castle. 

‘‘Would you like to go up into the tower 
and view the surrounding country?” asked 
Mr. O’Brien. 

‘‘Yes, I think it would be very interesting.” 

As they ascended the dark, narrow pas- 
sage Eileen thought of the time when lords 
and knights held sway and guarded the land. 
When they had reached the tower and were 
looking down into the dark and decaying 
ruins he said, ‘‘There have been many scenes 
of joy and of sorrow enacted down there be- 
low us. Those ivy covered ruins cannot fail 
to awaken memories of the past.” 

Side by side they viewed the lake with its 
many islands stretching away to the sea. 
On its one side they saw a low dense forest 
and on the other the beautiful blue-grey 
mountains which like stationed sentinels, 
powerless to mingle in the scenes, have im- 
passively witnessed all that has taken place 
since man first trod the path beneath. And 
above all the sky with its varying colors 
gave life and light to nature’s picture. 


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Both were deeply impressed and said no- 
thing until Mr. O’Brien broke the silence 
pointing to a ruin on the hills some distance 
away, “That,” he said, “was once the resi- 
dence of the Bishop of Ross.” 

Noticing Eileen’s palor, he said quickly, 
“You look tired, perhaps we have been stand- 
ing too long after our walk.” 

“I am a trifle dizzy,” she replied. 

He took her arm and led her to the pas- 
sage. Then both descended, he going first to 
show her the way. Once again outside the 
castle they took the road to the lake. When 
they reached the shore the water with its 
tiny waves and the boats floating on its sur- 
face seemed to invite them to sail. 

“I hope,” began Mr. O’Brien, “your mis- 
hap of yesterday has not made you afraid 
of the water.” 

“Not in the least,” laughed Eileen. 

“Then shall we row across?” 

“It would be lovely, if we have time.” 

“Oh, I am sure we have.” 

Soon they had left the shore and as he 
dipped the oars lightly they glided over the 
transparent water. 

“A row boat is one of my hobbies,” re- 
marked Eileen. 


NEW IRELAND 


85 


‘^Do you care to take one of the oars?^' 
asked Mr. O’Brien, pausing a moment in his 
rowing. 

‘^Oh, no, I know very little about actual 
rowing, and feel much safer when you do it, 
but I mean I like to sail in a row boat better 
than in other boats.” 

^'Have you lived near the water?” 

^'When I was very young, but I have only 
a faint recollection of it. Then it fascina- 
ted me. I think that what impresses and 
pleases one when young has the same effect 
when one has grown older.” 

And as they passed a large rock in the 
water he said, ‘T suppose you have heard a- 
bout this place. It was f^om this cliff that 
the author of * Colleen Bawn’ threw his hero- 
ine. It seems more like romance than re- 
ality. But sometimes the latter is more 
strange than the former.” 

In a short time they were at the opposite 
side of the lake. He rowed under the arched 
trees, through the narrow, still waters that 
led to the Danish Island. There they put to 
shore and took luncheon at Lady Braddon’s 
cottage. When they had finished they went 
outside of the cottage to a very pretty spot 
called the ‘'Meeting of the Waters,” where the 
island divides the stream. Here they rested 
on a pretty rustic bench. 


86 


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Eileen said, “I have often heard of the 
beauties of Killarney, but this is beyond my 
expectation. It must have been one of the 
old fairy haunts.’' 

‘^Yes,” he answered looking at her and try- 
ing to appear in earnest, ‘'and I think the 
loveliest of them all presides now and has 
waved her magic wand over me.” 

She looked at him very much injured. “I 
think you are unkind to spoil it all with such 
personal flattery.” 

“I am sorry you consider me so insincere, 
but we shall not quarrel over such a trifle.” 

“I am the trifle, I suppose,” said Eileen, 
raising her chin. 

He laughed. 

Then Eileen added more earnestly, “It 
would take a great deal more to make me 
be offended with you. I shall always forgive 
you everything in gratitude for the service 
you did me. But for you I might have been 
hurled into the lake.” Then she paused, look- 
ing very thoughtful. 

“Dreaming again?” he ventured. 

“I was only thinking that it would not 
matter much — perhaps.” 

“Perhaps,” he echoed. 

“But,” she concluded rousing herself, ‘T 
must not talk so. I shall help others and 
then have no time to brood over myself.” 


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87 


“Good !” he ejaculated. “Begin here. Help 
wanted.” 

She said nothing. 

He smiled and asked, “Have you thought 
of any special work? Are you a socialist or 
a — ^what is it? Oh, a suffragette. I think 
you have taken up the cause.” 

“I have not thought about either. I was 
about to tell you, but I see you like to jest.” 

“But,” he persisted, “I am anxious to 
know what you expect to do. I might be 
able to help you.” 

“If you promise not to scoff at me I will 
tell you.” 

“It is nothing much,” she went on, “but as 
I have a desire to help this country and as it 
would take money, which I have not, I must 
try to acquire some. I am to write a book.” 

“Then do you expect the sale of the book 
will be the means of helping the country, or 
what the book contains?” 

“What the book contains by all means. I 
do not know whether it will be a success but 
even if it should not I shall feel that I have 
done all that I could.” 

She got up and walked to the shore of the 
lake and looking at the placid waters she said, 
“This indeed is a bower of Eden!” 

“Would you like to remain here always?” 
he asked. 


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“Yes, but I should enjoy it more if I could 
assist others to have a glimpse of it. For 
many in this country a humble home and the 
bare necessities of life would be a paradise.” 

‘^You paint the picture too dark. Those 
people are quite content and do not know 
the loss of those things, and would not ap- 
preciate them if they had them.” 

“I am not speaking of those who have 
homes. Think of the many who have not a 
place to lay their head. Did you read about 
those people who were living in those barren 
hills where nothing could be produced? And 
because they could not give the landlords a 
certain amount of money they were thrown 
out of their homes.” 

“The agents took it on themselves to 
throw the people out; the landlords knew 
nothing about it.” 

''That is the trouble. Men have pos- 
sessions who have no interest, but to get 
money.” 

''Oh, those people can provide for them- 
selves.” 

“In what way?” 

“They can get work somewhere and 
earn some money?” 

“And how much can one of them earn? 
Very little, and he must live in this state, 


NEW IRELAND 


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for he has a helpless family/' 

'^He could emigrate." 

*‘He cannot get enough money. He must 
plod on to live a life of poverty. And the 
generation he leaves is in no better condition 
that he was. You feel that way simply 
because you have not given the matter any 
attention. People who are brought up as 
you have been are not apt to see outside of 
their sphere of life. They think all things 
as they are, are just as they should be. 
They think they were created to have all 
luxuries, but those poor creatures must not 
dare to dream or think of such things. They 
have only what the rich and powerful allow 
them. Oh, those lords with their castles 
walled in, and their many cottages around 
them. I could never be happy to see and 
have such poverty about me. I should not 
object to a comfortable cottage, but I should 
take some of these broad fields and have 
some small houses put on them and give 
them to the people." 

‘The government is not to blame. It is a 
hard matter to discuss and to know just what 
course to take. In this age all are discus- 
sing the political affairs of their country. 
What the outcome will be remains to be seen. 
I think all seem to drift toward democracy, 


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for the masses are demanding it and in time 
will succeed. I think it is the best for all as 
it brings equality in social and civil rights/’ 

“Just what I think,” said Elieen. ‘‘But 
let us go to the cottage and look at the 
postal cards.” 

When they had purchased cards and 
souvenirs of the places of interest they walked 
leisurely to the boat. Soon they were ready 
and rowed to another side of the lake, past 
the mountain where Donough McCarthy, 
one of the Celtic generals who fought against 
the Puritans for his native land, led his 
army; further on past O'Sullivan’s cascade, 
then beside a low, wooded plain where the 
startled deer roamed in herds and reached 
the hotel in time for dinner. 

Miss Douglas and Eileen spent a very 
pleasant evening talking of the places they 
had seen. 

The next day Gerald and several others 
who were stopping at the hotel went to see 
the Upper Lake. Miss Douglas being vary 
tired rested until afternoon. Then she and 
Eileen went for a short drive. After dinner 
the former went to the ball-room and enjoyed 
the evening dancing until rather late. Gerald 
met the latter and they went for a walk. 
He described the lake for her somewhat, 


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saying, “Its wild scenery of massive over- 
hanging rocks, which seem to threaten 
instant death to the sightseer, its long 
narrow outlet rushing in noisy torrents over 
rocks into the lake thousands of feet beneath 
was a great contrast to the other. “ And 
concluded with, “You must not fail to see 
it.“ 

“No, we shall not. It is probable we 
shall see it within a few days.” 

“I suppose you are still giving some time 
and thought to your literary mission!” 

“On account of my other work I have 
given it neither.” 

In a half-smiling way he continued, ''But 
surely your imagination can still work, for 
it did wonderfully well in regard to the 
injustice of the laws.” 

"I do not call it imagination. For before 
I started I knew nothing about the laws, 
but when I arrived and came face to face 
with the condition of the people and the 
country I was really surprised. Just consider 
that the most of the land that is fit for 
agriculture has been taken from the people 
and turned into grazing fields. And the 
people who have plots here and there are 
expected to pay the expenses of the country. 
How are they able to do it? By using the 


92 NEW IRELAND 

earnings of some member of the family who 
is working in America and who, by the way, 
had bon owed the money for his passage 
from some friend. Have you ever seriously 
thought what it means to bid farewell to all 
that life holds dear and face a strange 
unknown world? For even when poor and 
destitute, human hearts cling to those they 
love. 

“And think of those who go to America. 
For the first year their earnings are very 
little. After paying the kind friend who 
had loaned them the money most all the 
rest is sent to the dear ones at home. I 
have noticed that many of the Celts in that 
country are weak and when they have been 
there a few years they have lost their health. 
I could not account for it but I see the 
cause. They have not had the proper food 
to sustain them; it has been so for genera- 
tions. The necessaries of life were sold, the 
money was given to those who spent it in 
revelries and carouses; that is the English. 
And theirs is the guilt, for they gave titles 
and bounty to those who were so depraved 
as to deal unjustly with their own country- 
men. It is said that the Celt has changed, 
that he is not as he was of old. This is not 
true. We no longer meet the true Cell, he 
has as it were disappeared. We see only a 


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remnant of the race which has been enslaved 
by the English. Now he is only what his 
environment has made him. His slavery has 
drilled into his character a suspicion and 
pessimism that it is hard to root out. And 
it is also said by many that Ireland is 
improving. Perhaps it is, but very slowly, 
and its improvement is little or no benefit 
to the country. There are some few who 
were able to purchase land. But does this 
affect the wageearner? Does he receive enough 
recompense for his labor to induce him to 
stay in his own country? No. And what is 
any country that cannot give proper employ- 
ment to its people?'^ 

‘‘Three-quarters of the nations of the world 
fail in that respect.*' 

“I can argue there. The causes are not 
the same. They differ in most of the nations 
for some are overpopulated. Take England; 
it is over populated, not with Its own people 
but with foreigners who are allowed to come. 
‘Johnny* does not mind as long as it does 
not affect royalty and nobility. And then 
those who so wish can take a sail over to 
the other side and the stockholders of the 
liners profit by it. It is not the saloon 
passengers who have given the millions to 
build their floating palaces. No! But the 


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poor immigrant who is not treated with 
the kindness that would be shown to 
animals. Oh, yes, the men that rule are 
wonderful beings. They know how to manage 
the affairs of the nation. Oh, yes! all the 
politicians of each are in league with each 
other and they know they are not working 
in the interest of the masses. No, they are 
plotting to gain their points. If some enter 
with honest intentions, they soon get over 
that. For you must be aware it is the mania 
of the world to get money in a fair or foul 
way. It is the story of the world from 
the beginning. Nations rise and fall from 
the fact that men do not consider their duty 
to each other. The rich always get control 
of the government and they are the rulers. 
Do they stop to think that they are 
crushing the poor and despoiling them of 
their rights? And I sometimes think those 
people would not allow the sun to shine on 
any but those' they favor. This is wholly 
wrong and in the past has been the cause 
of wars and rebellions and in the present 
age is no better. The same evil exists. A 
small portion of the people want to control 
all the industries and tries to make the 
masses believe it is best, when it is not for 
many reasons. One is it gives all manage- 


NEW IRELAND 


95 


inent and control to a few and subjects the 
rest to manual labor and keeps them there. 
Another is that few control all the necessaries 
of life and keep them at unreasonable prices.” 

“But I think,” replied Gerald, “that the 
demand for those things control the prices.” 

“Yes, it did in the past when they were 
not in the hands of the few. The latter is 
thegreatevillamspeakingabout. The^ethings 
are left to men who hold them at the price 
they wish to obtain. And the poor must 
give all their earnings for them. The result 
is the former gets more than belongs to him 
and the latter less than his due. The govern- 
ment is to blame, for it consents to things 
that can be remedied only by the laws, and 
if allowed to continue make the country a 
prey to destruction and ruin. For when the 
masses of the people are deprived of rights 
the country is in a deplorable condition, and 
such was the direct cause of the overthrow 
of the Caesars and the French kings.” 

“Such perhaps would eventually be the 
outcome. But the people, that is the masses, 
have more control at the present time in 
some measures, for instance in their unions, 
and could in time demand all that should 
be given them, if they would be educated 
and united. The fact is plainly to be seen 


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that those who have charge of the govern- 
ment are not upright; and the people are 
aware of their aims to satisfy a class that is 
against the welfare of the country, for it is 
the latter which tells the real condition and 
decides its fate.’* 

“Well, I did not intend to drift away 
from what we were discussing. To go back 
to our own. How will it begin to improve? 
Never, until it is governed by the people.” 

‘'I think,” said Gerald, “they have 
somehow made much progress in securing 
self-government. It is not to be expected 
that all could be accomplished at once.” 

”I think what has been done does very 
little toward gaining what is essential. What 
can a few people who have such a small 
portion of land do? While much of the 
business is carried on by the English which 
is a great injustice to the people. It is not 
characterstic of the Celt to be dull and 
unambitious. For long before they were 
christianized they were superior in intellect 
and when they were converted became a 
people of learning and did much to spread 
the faith and education in other countries, 
and have continued to do so until the 
present time. Even now in America their 
religious zeal does not fail to impress those 


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97 


about them. And if we stop to think we 
realize that this is of the greatest importance 
to all humanity.” 

“Yes, I agree, for faith brings light and all 
things.” 


CHAPTER X. 

One morning a few days later Eileen and 
Gerald went out for a drive and when they 
had passed a house some distance from the 
road, the former admired its quaint attractive- 
ness and asked Gerald if he knew who lived 
there. 

‘*The last occupant was a landlord whose 
name was Bliss and who was very unjust 
and cruel to his tenants. Knowing he was 
very much disliked he always carried a 
revolver. One day he was on his way to 
his office and in some way it discharged 
and killed the coachman. Mr. Bliss did not 
Inform anyone. He went to his office and 
later was found dead. There had been a family 
who had leased some land from him. The 
people died and left a son unmarried. 
He, for some unknown reason, was evicted. 
The young man was very much upset 
about it. He became despondent and be- 
gan to drink. The day Mr. Bliss was 
found dead this man was in town. Some 


98 


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99 


friends of the former said he was seen com- 
ing out of the office; others said that there 
was no truth in it. They declared he knew 
nothing about the matter, but they gave him 
no hearing and cast him into prison to 
await his trial, which was long and per- 
plexing. As they could not get any proof 
against him, he was kept year after year. 
In some way the judge and jury pronounced 
him guilty and he was executed. The 
people were enraged about it. The general 
belief was that when Bliss found the 
coachman dead he was afraid that he would 
be suspected of killing him, as he carried a 
weapon, and in his excitement and fear 
took his own life. When it was all over the 
Bliss family went to England to live. It is 
said that the house is haunted and no one 
has lived there since.’* 

‘‘How much misfortune these evictions 
cause!” sighed Eileen. 

Many other points in the unfortunate con- 
dition of the Celts were emphasized by the 
places they visited during this drive and 
others and also in their walks. 

Thus the time passed. Miss Douglas and 
Eileen had spent some time in Killarney. 
Gerald had manage to give the latter much 
attention and finally offered himself and a 


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home to her in the land she loved so well. 

Contrary to his hopes and expectations 
Eileen did not accept but wished to put the 
matter off, saying, feel greatly honored 
and I appreciate your kindness but I cannot 
accept.” 

Shocked and stunned at the answer 
Gerald did not reply immediately but after 
a few minutes looking steadily at her said, 
‘*Do you not think me sincere?” But before 
she could reply he turned his gaze from her, 
saying stiffly, ‘‘Oh, there is some one in 
America who has more fully realized your 
ideal. Perhaps you have quarreled, perhaps 
you soon will make up.” 

Eileen smiled sadly. “Do not talk so. 
You do not mean what you say. You are 
irritated. You feel I have unduly encouraged 
you. Let me admit I shall gladly accept 
your offer but,” she stammered slightly, 
“but it would interfere with my work.” 

“I do not see why,” said Gerald brighten- 
ing a little. 

“The delay will be only a short time, 
and I think it much better for you to 
consider the matter a little longer. You 
have known me but a short time and perhaps 
you will change your mind. It will be 
better for both to consider now, as any 


NEW IRELAND 


101 


other step might be the cause of trouble and 
disappointment to both in the future.” 

“There is no reason for such thoughts,” 
answered Gerald again irritated. “It is 
more often the case that the delays prove 
to be most unfortunate . In waiting 
many unforeseen obstacles arise which are 
the cause of doubts, disinterestedness and 
final separation.” 

“I must agree with you,” said Eileen 
seriously, “but you must admit it is a good 
test. Yet be these as they may, in our 
case a delay is necessary. It is not im- 
possible that in a short time you will forget 
we ever met.” 

“I can hardly blame you for thinking so; 
for you are not supposed to know my real 
self. You probably think I just take this 
way of passing time. I never did care 
especially for the gentle sex and in the future 
I shall care less. ” 

She smiled, saying, “I suppose you 
will be like the rejected suitor in Locksley 
Hall, take atrip to Cathay.” 

“It would have been much better had I 
been there than have met you,” he answered 
trying not to smile. 

“You should not talk thus for if duty 
requires me to do what seems unnecessary 


102 


NEW IRELAND 


you should be resigned. As soon as I 
can I shall tell you the reason of the delay. 
I shall write often. I do not promise 
long, eloquent discourses, for my time will 
be much occupied with my work.’' 

‘‘I suppose you will demonstrate suffrage 
and socialism very clearly. ” 

“I do not think you have any reason to 
consider me an exponent of either.” 

”Oh, I cannot say that I have, but at 
the present time that is what women are 
discussing and aiming for.” 

”I think women ought to interest 
themselves in politics. I do not agree 
with the decision of men that their whole 
time should be taken up with home duties. 
It need not interfere with them in that 
line. Women should give some time to 
politics . It is a mistake for men to think them 
beneath them in intellect. Those of my 
sex who give no thought to such things are 
stupid and uninteresting . And if it is so 
out of place why have women of all ages been 
rulers of nations?” 

‘‘You know they had very little to do 
with the making of laws.” 

“I am aware of that. But that is the 
inconsistency of men to say they do not 
approve of those things and then allow 


NEW IRELAND 


103 


them to exist. I cannot say I consider 
it just the thing for women to be rulers 
of our nations. It looks very foolish and 
weak to me, and history does not give an 
account of their ever being especially good 
to their subjects. 

‘^Then I suppose your theme is to tell 
how a country should be governed.’’ 

She looked at him archly, ‘‘Do you 
think I am able to do so?” 

“I do not know but I think that you possess 
some good ideas about it. But you must 
remember each country has to be managed 
in its own special way, that is in the way 
proper to its benefit?” 

“Yes,” she said. 

“Eileen,” said Gerald earnestly, “give up 
your plans of going back to America and 
do as I request . I think it will be much 
better for us and I can assist you in your — 
literary mission . ” 

“No, Gerald, it is impossible.” 

That evening when Eileen went to Miss 
Douglas’ room after dinner she told her she 
had decided to give up her present work 
and take a different kind. 

Miss Douglas was much surprised and 
wished to know the cause of such an un- 
expected turn. “Is the work too difficult?” 


104 


NEW IRELAND 


When Eileen said no, she added, ‘‘Then 
you have taken some dislike to me?*' 

Still Eileen shook her head assuring her 
that it was neither. 

'The work I intend to take up is very 
different . In a way it is much harder than 
what I have been doing. Some other time 
I shall tell you what it is. I am very 
tired tonight/* 

'‘Very well, dear,** said Miss Douglas, 
“until then consider the matter seriously; 
you may change your mind.** 

When Miss Douglas learned the kind of 
work Eileen intended to begin, she tried 
to persuade her from it but could not. 

"I dislike to see you go, Eileen,** she con- 
cluded, “for I have grown very fond of you 
and also to rely on you for many things. It 
will be very difficult for me to take a new 
maid . But I am not so selfish as to stand 
in your way if you are going to better 
yourself. I wish you all success. As I 
start for home in a few days do you think you 
could stay with me until then and I shall 
not need to engage a new maid?** 

Eileen was willing to stay until Miss 
Douglas started for England. She helped 
to pack her things and prepare in every 
way for the voyage. When the time foi 


NEW IRELAND 


105 


leaving came, she and Gerald went to the 
dock and saw Miss Douglas off. The latter 
gave her address to each, urging them 
both and Eileen especially to correspond 
with her and thus keep up their friendship. 

As Eileen had decided to return to America 
she left Killarney and spent a few weeks 
in some of the cities and villages. Gerald 
said he would remain until she left, then he 
would return to England for some time. He 
accompanied her to Queenstown where she 
was to take the boat. On the way Eileen 
tried to conceal her feelings, and would have 
succeeded, but the expression of her face re- 
vealed them more clearly than words could 
have. Gerald did not fail to notice it and re- 
alized that she had some strong motive 
for taking a course which seemed so unneces- 
sary to him. But he refused to let himself be 
convinced and even to their parting words 
adhered to his former idea, saying, ‘1 hope 
you have no fear of the voyage nor sea-sick- 
ness, for in a time I expect you to return.^’ 
Eileen had a pleasant voyage. She met in- 
teresting people . Her steamer, which was 
bound for Boston Harbor, arrived in due time. 
As it was quite late in the afternoon she 
stayed in the city. The next morning, 
desiring a quiet place, she looked in the 


106 


NEW IRELAND 


paper and found what she thought was 
what she liked. 

It was one of the suburbs just outside 
the city. She went to see the place and 
being thoroughly satisfied remained. After 
luncheon she went to her room and wrote ta 
Catherine, saying she would not return for 
a while. For a few days she rested, then, 
commenced her work. 


CHAPTER XL 

One day Mrs. Daly was just coming from a 
short walk when Mrs. Carey entered the yard. 

Mrs. Daly hastened toward her, saying, 
am very glad to see you. I was just speak- 
ing about you this morning and I thought 
you must be sick. Come in. I am anxious 
to have a chat with you.” 

was going to town today so I rode over 
with him. ‘T have been very well and busy. 
For we have had some rooms built on the 
house and had it papered and painted inside 
and out. For John is getting old and is not 
able to do the work without some help. As 
it is very hard to get anyone, he got a tenant 
on the place. Mr. West, the teller in the 
bank told him about a family named Grant 
who wanted a farm. John had a talk with 
him and he rented the place for one year. 
They moved in last week. They are Scotch 
and have two children, a girl and a boy. 
They seem to be nice people. Mrs. Grant 
is very neat but she knows very little about 
107 


108 


NEW IRELAND 


cooking. I told her I was willing to help her 
about anything she did not understand. The 
first few days I gave them their meals; I 
thought she had so much to do. She 
said she was very discouraged in trying 
to cook, she never had any luck. I told her 
she would learn soon, most women find it dif- 
ficult to learn to cook at first. She said she 
knew nothing about housework before she got 
married that she had always worked in a store 
from the time she was old enough. 

‘T asked her what her husband did before 
they came here. She said he worked in 
a factory and did not get much wages, they 
could scarcely make a living. He never liked 
working inside. He had W3rked on a farm 
in Scotland. She thought it is ralher hard for 
anyone to train himself to a different work, 
and that people who live in the country dis- 
like living in the town. I asked her if she 
liked the country. She said yes, but it did 
not make much difference to her. She liked 
wherever they could do best. They thought 
they could live better in the country and per- 
haps make a little money. There were so many 
poor people in the town and they never could 
pay their expenses, but chose people don’t 
mind. It would be better for them if they 
went into the country but they all have a 


NEW IRELAND 


109 


craze for the town. When the children are 
small she thought the country is better for 
them. People think the schools are not good, 
but she could not see why they could not be 
instructed as well there as in town. They seem 
to pass all the examinations in the town, but 
know very little when they finish. They spend 
time on studies that are not practical ; she did 
not see what use they are to them; it would 
be better if they spent more time on the 
studies they needed.^’ 

‘'There is something in that,’* said Mrs. 
Daly, “but the teachers in the towns are bet- 
ter than those in the country.” 

“Then she bought some gingham to make 
dresses for the little girl but did not know 
much about sewing . I told her if she got a 
pattern I would cut them for her. I showed 
her how to make them. She did very well, 
but I made the button holes and put in the 
buttons . ” 

“Well you have been very busy,” laughed 
Mrs. Daly, “and how does Jim like Mr. Grant?” 
J5“Oh, very well. He says he is very good 
and seems to know hm to work. But there 
is not very much to do now. He is going in 
the woods to get wood for the summer. Jim is 
going to help him to take care of the cattle then 
for he says he would not have much time if he 
had all the work to do.” 


no 


NEW IRELAND 


'‘You must be very lonesome, Mrs. Daly, 
since all the children are gone.” 

‘‘I am as much alone as if I never had them, 
and you were always regretting you did not 
have any.” 

"Yes but you can see them and if you really 
need their assistance you can get it. 
What did John think about Eileen’s going a- 
way?” 

'‘He did not mind it, for he said he thought 
the change would do her good. He was afraid 
she did not have enough money. I did not 
tell him she went to work, if he knew it he 
would be wild. For he never wanted her to 
do anything like that. He wanted to give her 
the money her father left her. We never spent 
much on her, and we knew her people would 
not rest in their graves if they knew she was 
neglected. He keeps asking me when she is 
coming home. I tell him he is very silly to 
think she cannot go away for awhile. Anyone 
would think she was a child and could not 
lake care of herself. He was afraid she 
was sick and he worried about what she 
would do among strangers ; she would be better 
off at home. I told him she was well and 
h aving a pleasant time. Catherine told me the 
other day they had not heard from her in 
ome time, she did not^see why she did not 


NEW IRELAND 


111 


write.” 

“I wish Eileen had lived with me, I was" 
very fond of her. I think she is a very nice 
girl.” 

“She was not any better than others. I 
think it is a very unpleasant task to bring up 
other people’s children.” 

“I did not think Eileen ever gave you much 
trouble. She was easier to manage than most 
children. I hope you do not regret ,what you 
have done. Some one had to take care of 
her. You are not expected to do it for no- 
thing.” 

» 

“It did not do me any good. Her uncle 
spent it and in a very foolish way. I told 
him he would lose all, but he would have his 
own way and never listened to any one.” . 

“He did it for the best. Do you think he 
would let anyone throw him out of his home? 
It was but natural that he would try to keep 
it. And I think it was for the best. I think 
you have got on very well. You remember 
Mrs. O’Neil?” 

“No.” 

“Oh, yes, you met her at 'my house. I 
told you about her. Her husband died and 
left her with a little boy. She went as house- 
keeper to a' 'family nam^ Birch.” 


112 NEW IRELAND 


“Yes, I heard the children speak about 
the boy when they went to school. They said 
he was very smart, he settled all the disputes 
that arose among them. I think Edward said 
he went to college, and was going to study 
law.” 

“Yes, and he has finished and is practicing 
now. He is considered very clever. The other 
day his mother came to spend the day with 
me. She said Mrs. Birch had gone away for 
a week. She wrote to her son to come to stay 
with her nights . I said, ^You must be very 
proud of him, he is such a fine young man . ' 
^Yes,^ she said, ^but he is quite taken up with 
politics. I do not like it. It is the ruin 
of many.’’ I told her it would not affect 
him in that way, that he would become 
£L great statesman yet, I saw no reason 
why he should not. She thought he 
would do just as well to keep out of them. 
She said he has a good practice and will make 
more if he just keeps at it. He has a nice 
fortune now. Mr. Birch did well by him, 
he left him a large sum of money, but he will 
not get it until Mrs . Birch dies . She thinks 
she will leave him some more for she always 
says he is her boy. She would like to have 
him marry and settle, it is much better for 
men to do so . They become reckless if they 


NEW IRELAND 113 


do not . He does not care for girls . He says 
they are all right to go out with and have a 
good time . But he does not care to marry, 
it is too much to be bothered with a 
wife . The most of them do not care for their 
husbands, only for society. They want to 
give the idea that they are rich and what 
kind of a life do they have? I said if he met 
the right one he would not talk like that? I 
suppose he has met those society girls and he 
thinks he would have to be rich to take one 
of them . Take the Millers. Every one said 
they were well off . Their place was mort- 
gaged for every cent it was worth. I was 
not surprised. Just think how much they 
paid to build that fine house. People say 
they lived in a most extravagant way. I 
do not see what the farmers are thinking a- 
bout, they all seem to be losing their places . 
I am sure it is all poor management . In fact 
I think most Americans do not live within 
their means, and they are at their wit’s end 
to know just what to do. It is not the farm- 
ers but all classes.” Looking out, she said 
quickly, “There is Jim; I must go.” 


CHAPTER XII. 

Among the girls who went to the school 
house in the valley there were many pretty 
ones. But Paul said Frances Miller, who was 
dark, with glossy curly hair and red cheeks, 
was the only girl for him. As she seemed to 
consider him her favorite all thought that 
when school days were ended she would be- 
come Mrs. Paul Earl. 

When they ceased to attend the village 
school, although she went to a seminary and 
he to a boy's preparatory school, they still 
corresponded and saw each other on every 
possible occasion. As Frances and May were 
really fond of each other and visited each 
other they still were very confident friends . 
Frances made many acquaintances and was 
invited to many social affairs, in short, 
was a great favorite and much admired 
by all. While she and May discussed social 
events before and after, she once said, “I 
have no preference for anyone. I just enjoy 
their society for the time. Mother thinks 


114 


NEW I RE LAN® 115 


me too young to^hink of such a thing and 
says I have not met anyone as yet whom she 
would consider a proper match for meV* 

*'l thought/' demurred May, *^that you car- 
ed more for Paul than anybody else and I 
think he is verydond of you." 

"Oh, that was mere childish play for 1 
was not old enough to know better." 

Frances’ mother was a proud ambitious 
woman who was looking more for money and 
social position than real happiness. 

Frances' looked up from the pillow top she 
was embroidering and said more joyfully, "I 
am having such an elegant gown made for the 
reception one of my classmates is giving . I 
did not expect an invitation; they are very 
wealthy people and their social affairs are very 
select. " 

As they were talking Paul entered the room 
and taking a seat beside her said, "You are 
beginning to look sedate and dignified. I can 
scarcely believe you are the little girl I used 
to play with. " Then he added, "Do I seem 
changed to you?" 

She smiled and said, "You think I have 
grown better looking . Is that what you mean?" 

"No, not that. I cannot just describe what 
I mean." 

May sat down at the piano, and after they 


116 NEW IRELAND 


had their favorite pieces Paul said, am 
going to the theatre. I have heard much 
about the play that is in — do you girls care 
to come?** 

Frances spoke first, hope it is not very 
tragic or sentimental. I am in no mood for 
for anything like that. ** 

do not care particularly,** said May, 
^^but it is a pleasant way to spend the 
evening.** 

**Come on,** said Paul, “you ought to see 
it, everyone has.** 

So they went. 

The next morning Frances had to return 
home. Her mother greeted her with, “Mr. 
Gordon called last evening and seemed dis- 
appointed that you were away. It would be 
much better I think if you were more atten- 
tive to him . It seems you are wholly taken 
up with the Earls. When I plan something 
you are sure to upset it. Surely Mr. Gordon 
is far superior in every way to Paul, who will 
never be anything but a farmer. To become 
his wife would be to settle down to a dull, 
monotonous life.** 

“That would depend on whether I was 
happy and contented. I know I shall never 
care for Mr. Gordon as a husband. I know 
he has wealth and social position . But his 
seems an empty and tiresome life.** 


NEW IRELAND 117 


Though Frances rebelled and declared that 
she would not receive attentions from him, 
little by little she relented and was in his 
society much of the time. 

Mrs. Miller was delighted at being so suc- 
cessful in managing the affair. A few months 
later the engagement was announced at a din- 
ner which was given for the occasion. 

Paul was very quiet and not much dis- 
turbed . May was much surprised and hav- 
ing made some few remarks to him never re- 
ferred to it again . 

In a short time Paul became restless and 
began to look pale and changed . His people 
urged him to go abroad for the winter . He 
would not hear of it at first, but finally de- 
cided to go to France. When he left home 
his father and May accompanied him to the 
train . His mother said she could never see 
him go . It always upset her and made her 
ill . When he had gone she felt as if the 
house were empty it was so lonesome with- 
out him. ‘^I am sure we shall miss him,’' 
said May trying to console her, ‘'but I am 
glad he has gone. It will do him much good.’^ 

Just then the door-bell rang and the post- 
man gave her a letter addressed to herself. 
She opened it and found it was from Frances. 
“I tried to find time,” she wrote, “to go and 


118 NEW IRELAND 


see you,ibut did not succeed, so thought I 
would write. I am very busy as I expect 
to be married in a month and am having 
my trousseau finished. It takes so much 
of my time trying this and that. Then I 
am out almost every evening, as I am given 
many dinners. Mr. Gordon is to be con- 
sidered of course, but I am tired of it all and 
shall be glad when it is all over. I hope 
you are all well. I shall try to see you if 
only for a short time.’’ 

think Frances has made a mistake,” said 
Mrs. Earl, when May finished reading. ”1 
do not think she is happy, and doubt if she 
ever will be.” 

”I think she is not allowed to do as she 
likes,” said May. “Her mother does the 
planning and insists on its being carried out . 
Of course she thinks she is doing the right 
thing and perhaps it is for the best. I do 
not think it makes much difference if we 
are only happy. But some have no will of 
their own and are lead to do what others 
wish, whether it is right or not . ” 

While they were talking Uncle Hiram and 
Aunt Hilda, who had been to the village, 
drove up . When the latter came in and sat 
down, she said, ”We went to see the Daly 
children as we call them. I was surprised 


N.EW IRELAND 119 


that Eileen has not returned. Catherine 
said that they did not know just when she 
will . I did not have much time to talk to 
her for she helped get the lunch and then 
when she had finished went to school . Ed- 
ward and Lou are looking very well. As I 
always have a motherly chat with them they 
said they are doing splendidly. They have 
bought the cottage and nearly finished pay- 
ing for it. Edward's partner in business 
wished to retire and sold him the business. 
The people in the town told Hiram that he 
is liked very much, that he is a capable young 
man. I knew that they would do well. 
When they were children they worked and 
helped their people. I think they are very 
happy and independent, for they can take 
care of themselves. It is a much better 
training than to be brought up in idleness 
and look to others for support. I am sure 
no one was to blame for the way they were 
brought up. I do not mind work but I 
should not care for it all the time. I al- 
ways wanted to learn to sew and cook, as it 
is so hard to get anyone to do it properly.” 

One Tuesday evening Mrs. Miller sat in the 
parlor. Mr. Miller was sitting by the table 
looking over the evening paper. The former 
began, “It is a great relief, it is all over, and 


120 NEW IRELAND 


I have managed to get Frances married so 
well. The wedding was a great success. The 
only thing which caused any uneasiness was 
the weather. I have a superstition about not 
having the sun shine on a bride.’* 

‘‘Oh, women are always worrying about 
some nonsensical thing,” answered Mr. Miller. 
“What has the weather to do with anything 
like that?” 

“I did not realize how tired and exhausted 
I am. I shall have a rest a day or so at least 
before I arrange the house for them.” She 
paused for a moment and then said, “I shall 
have to get some one to assist me.” 

A few days later she went in search of Mrs. 
Johnston, a colored woman, whom she always 
employed to help her with house-cleaning. 
As she was usually at work she did not know 
just where to find her so went to her home 
and was surprised to find her. 

After she was seated she said, “I hope you 
are not sick, Cloe?” 

“No, but Sammy is. Early last spring some 
men came here with some race horses and he 
took one to train, which is very hard work. 
But he liked it and I could not get him to do 
anything else. When the horses went in the 
race, he went as a jock: he seemed to know 
just how to drive the horse and won the first 


NEW IRELAND 121 


purse. I was always worrying about him. I 
always said he would get hurt, for you know 
how exciting those races are. The jocks and 
the horses all seem wild and one would think 
they would kill each other. It was the last 
race and as it was but a short distance I 
thought I would go and see it. When I saw 
him come out I was so nervous and frightened 
I wanted to go and beg of him not to go in 
the race. But I controlled myself as if I was 
delighted, for I knew he would think I had 
taken leave of my senses had I said a word to 
him. I think it is all right to go to a horse 
race when the jocks seem nothing more than 
automatons. 

“As the races began it was very exciting. 
There were several horses. Two or three were 
coming under the wire in the first heat. Then 
the men began to scream and shout, telling 
them to come on. Sam suddenly broke away 
from the others and came under the wire first. 
The other heat was just as exciting. Sam lost 
the second but got the last. As he was leav- 
ing the track in some way he got tangled up 
with two or three of the other horses and was 
thrown on the ground. Before they could 
stop them they ran over him. He sprained 
his ankle and was very much bruised and has 
to stay in bed. The doctor says he will be 


122 NEW IRELAND' 


well in a short time. I told him I wish he 
would never go near a horse again. He says 
it is nothing, and he will not keep away from 
the race track, that he will own a fine runner 
yet. Boys are always in some kind of dan- 
ger. 

Mrs. Miller said, “I am very sorry Sammy 
had such an accident. Tdo not know what to 
do as I wanted someone to help settle Frances’ 
house. I would wait, but they are coming 
home in a few weeks and' I have not much 
time.” 

''I am sorry,” answered ^Cloe*, “I would be 
glad to have the work'^ I cannot think of 
Frances being married; it seems such a short 
time since she was a small child. You 
must be lonesome without her. It [is well 
she is not going out of town, you can see her 
often. I can find someone to do your work if 
you like.” 

“Very well.^ I shall leave it to you. I do 
not know where to look for jngt the right kind 
of person.” 


CHAPTER XIIL 


The morning after the wedding May was 
giving her mother and Aunt Hilda an account 
of it, telling about the fine gowns and decora- 
tions, adding, 'T always disliked weddings, 
not the marriage ceremony but the recep- 
tions; they always are dull and uninteresting. 
I never will have one if I marry."' 

‘^You are unlike most girls,” answered her 
mother. ”I hope you will not keep such 
queer notions. I want to give one at least.” 

”We shall wait and see how I meet my fate.” 

*Tf you keep waiting,” said Aunt Hilda, 
am afraid you will not succeed, for you 
were not interested in any you have met.” 

”Just wait,” said May, “perhaps I ^shall 
give you a surprise. All girls have different 
tastes, and some of their flections astonish us 
as much as the fair Desdamona choosing 
Othello.” She turned to her aunt, 

“Aunt Hilda, why is it you never married; 
I know you have not escaped cupid's darts.” 

Aunt Hilda looked up< from her knitting, 


123 


124 NEW IRELAND 


‘‘When I was young I did not care to bother 
with beaux. As there were many boys in 
school we were thrown in each other's society 
and we all went to dances and social affairs. 
Each had his favorite and of course I had 
mine, but as he was a large boy and left school 
shortly after I entered, he seemed much older 
than 1. And as Hiram always carried us to 
and from our parties, I usually met him at 
the dance and did not think any more about 
him. So some years passed and I was scarcely 
twenty. One Sunday afternoon I went with 
a basket of fruit and cake which mother had 
cold me to take to a little sick girl who lived 
at some distance. When I was returning 
home I met Horace Brand. I stopped to 
talk a few minutes, then we walked on for 
some time until we came to a bridge across 
a brook. We stood leaning on the railing 
and watched the fish, talking about when we 
went to school, how we were punished for 
staying until dark trying to catch them. 
Mother always insisted on my wearing a 
sunfbonnet, but I always carried it in my 
hand. He used to tease me, saying I was 
afraid I would soil it. How angry it made me ! 
I was always very spunky and when he said 
that I started to walk on. He came after 
me and said I was silly to mind what he said 


NEW IRELAND 125 


for he was only teasing me. He said he was 
very fond of me and asked if I did not like 
him very much and would some time marry 
him. I said I had not thought anything 
about it and would not decide now. So we 
walked on until we reached my house. I 
invited him in. We had tea and he spent the 
evening. We continued to meet for some 
time just as usual. 

''I had a schoolmate, Jessie Wicks. We 
often met and talked about our beaux. 
One day as we were together Horace drove by, 
then we began to make some remarks about 
him. She said he was very attentive to her 
and had asked her to marry him. I was 
very much surprised and commenced to talk 
about something else. When I met him I 
told him about it, saying I was astonished. 
He said he was surprised to hear such a thing, 
that there was no truth in it. I told him I 
did not care, but if there was anything I 
disliked it was deceit. I had no confidence 
in a person who was guilty of such a thing. 
After that somehow I never could be the same. 
He insisted I should marry him. I would 
not; and finally would not see him. 

^^Then he began to dissipate and seemed 
not to care what became of him. I was very 
grieved but I felt I could not marry him. 


126 NlEW IRELAND 


^ After some years Jessie was to be married. 
The day before she came to me and said what 
she had told me about Horace was not so, 
she had a very jealous disposition and as she 
had no lover she could not endure to see me 
marry and just made it all up. I said nothing, 
and as I felt I could not make amends I sim- 
ply wrote him a note explaining what I had 
learned, and le^t the matter as it was. I did 
not sit down and brood over it. I had other 
admirers, but to marry I did not care. In 
after years people said I was a man-hater. 
I did not care what they said; I thought it 
was none of their business.** 

'Well, Auntie,** laughed May, 'T do not 
think you were particularly fond of them, 
and I think if you had married you would have 
been an ideal wife and mother, but you did 
not. Tell me the fate of your old lover.** 
"Oh,** concluded Aunt Hilda, "he kept on 
dissipating, took no care of himself and finally 
fell into consumption. Sometimes I heard he 
was getting better. One day he went out 
for drive. That evening he had a severe he- 
morrhage and died the next morning.** 

The evening turned cut dark and blustery, 
the wind whistled around the house and 
swept moaning through the trees. May sat 
in her room and was looking at the bright 


NEW IRELAND 127 


fire in the grate. Her mother entered, 
saying, thought you must be ill, you are 
up so late, and came to see what I could do 
for you.’’ 

am very well. I tried to read but could 
not get interested. I was thinking what I 
shall wear to the party.” 

”I do not see why you like to attend those 
country dances. I think those in town are 
much nicer.” 

enjoy the country ones more, they are 
all new and original, and do not do every- 
thing for effect.” 

^‘You have queer ideas. I wish you would 
be like other girls. Are you going to accept 
the invitation to spend the winter in the 
South?” 

”I have given it little or no thought. I 
cannot go for some weeks, if at all, for you 
know I have decided to take part in the en- 
tertainment.” 

”You can give it up. It is only a great 
deal of time and labor spent for nothing and 
you can get some one to take your part. 
You have always done so much they cannot 
expect it now.” 

“I know it will make confusion and give 
them extra work if I do not help. I can 
write and tell Pauline that I shall go later.” 


128 NEW IRELAND 


Next morning Aunt Hilda sat in her room. 
May came in, saying, have a letter for 
you. Auntie.’* She took it, and looking at the 
postmark wondered, ‘Who can have sent it 
to me?” She opened it and after reading it 
said, “It is from Terese. You remember 
she was our maid so long.” 

“Oh, yes,” May said. “Is she well?” 

“She must be as she says she expects to be 
here in a few days. I am sure I shall be glad 
to see her. I must tell Uncle Hiram to meet 
her.” 

On the day she was expected Uncle Hiram 
met her and brought her from the station. 
She was kindly received by all. After supper 
Aunt Hilda said, “Let us go to my room and 
have a good long talk. I shall not keep you 
too long, for I know you must be tired.” 

When they were seated in her room Aunt 
Hilda, in her familiar place near her work- 
basket, took up her sewing, saying, “I am 
so glad you came, and how have you been? 
I was surprised when you wrote saying you 
would not come back to us.” 

“I intended to and would have if it had not 
been for my brother’s wife. She had a 
nephew who livedo a few miles from their 
place. I had met him several times. She 
was always talking about him, saying he 


NEW IRELAND 129 


would make me a good husband, that I would 
have a nice home, that it would be much 
better. She thought I was foolish to work as 
I did. When I got old no one would want me 
and as he seemed to be a nice sort of a man I 
accepted him and in a short time we were 
married. I went to live with his mother. 
I found her very unkind and disagreeable. 
My husband proved to be much worse. He 
drank and had a very bad temper; would go 
to town, stay all day; come home late at 
night. I was actually afraid of him. Then 
when we were married about a year a little 
girl came. He seemed to be better and I 
think he was. Anyway he did not annoy me 
so much. I suppose I was so taken up with 
her. She was a dear creature and seemed very 
well until she was six months old. Then she 
took a severe cold which she never got over. 
I was tired and became very nervous and 
told my husband I should like to go and see 
you. As he had not been quite so bad, he 
said he was willing. I was delighted and 
wished that I was free to do as I liked. I 
felt I did not care to ever go back.” 

*'You do not look well I think,” said Aunt 
Hilda. ”I am very sorry you have made 
such a bad match. You are worthy of a 
better husband. You must stay some time 


130 NEW IRELAND 


and then you will be yourself again. You 
can help me sew. I shall be glad to have you 
with me for I do not go out much during the 
winter and at times I feel quite lonely.'’ 

Terese answered simply, ^'Thank you. I 
was very foolish to ever leave you.” 

‘‘You must not think about it now. Per- 
haps your husband will be much better.” 

Some weeks passed and Terese began to get 
strong again. She heard often from her 
husband. The last letter said he was very 
lonely and much changed and that she would 
find him a very different man when she re- 
turned, for he had taken the pledge; he was 
sorry he had not done so a long time before. 
To stay as long as she wished, but to write 
before she started; he would go to her as he 
wanted to spend a few days with her friends 
and meet Aunt Hilda and Uncle Hiram.” 

One warm day Uncle Hiram said, “I am 
going to drive in the woods. I have not seen 
the Indians for a long time.” 

‘‘I will go with you,” said Terese. 

“Do,” said Aunt Hilda, “and I will send 
some nice apples, cake and jelly. I have 
been looking for them for some time. I think 
it is strange they have not come.” 

When they were on the way Teresa laughed 
and said, “What fun we had when we were 


NEW IRELAND 131 


children going into the wood and picking 
berries. I like it even in the winter, it is so 
calm and peaceful.'' 

When they came to the hut they were 
surprised to find them sick. Mr. Fleetfoot 
was sitting by the fire, and told them, 
have been very sick but am better now. I 
am glad to see you. I don't know what is 
the trouble with my wife; I think she has a 
bad cold." 

Terese went to the next room where she 
was and found her propped up in the bed. 
When asked how she felt, she replied, 
have severe pains and feel very cold." 

Teresa heated some flannel and wrapped 
her up warm. Then she said to Uncle 
Hiram, ‘T am going to stay here a while so 
when you go back tell Aunt Hilda to send me 
some bread and these things I am going to 
write down for you. And perhaps it would 
be well to have a doctor." 

‘Wes," said Hiram, ‘T think so." 

Some hours later the doctor came and said, 
“It is an attack of pleurisy which came from 
a severe cold. I shall leave some remedies for 
both. See," he added, turning to Terese, 
“that she is kept warm and takes her medi- 
cine regularly." 

Aunt Hilda sent one of the men with a 


132 NEW IRELAND 


basket which contained the things that were 
needed and told him, Terese can’t come 
back with you you had better stay until 
morning.” 

After Terese had emptied the basket, she 
said, ”I cannot think of leaving them, they 
are so sad and lonely. You can sleep on the 
couch in the kitchen and I shall manage to 
find some kind of a bed.” 

She would have been very lonesome if he 
had not come. When she bade him good-night, 
the Indian said, feel much better. You 
are very kind to stay, for we were lonesome, 
as I was not able to go out. You see when 
I was well I usually went to the neighbors 
and to town quite often. Mr. Daly always 
came in to see us.” 

Terese stayed a few days with her sick 
friends. Soon they were much better and 
she returned to Aunt Hilda. 

”You are quite a nurse,” said Uncle Hiram, 
”and very courageous.” 

"'I had no fear of them. They are a queer 
fascinating people to me; I have much sym- 
pathy for them.” 

”Here is a letter for you, Terese,” said 
Aunt Hilda, coming in. 

It was from her husband, who wrote, 
am sick and wish you would come home.” 


NEW IRELAND 133 


The next morning she was up early and 
ready for the journey. Aunt Hilda deeply 
regretted having her go and told her to write 
early and let her know how he was. 

^Tt is such a nice morning/’ said May, 
am going to the station with you.” 

Uncle Hiram drove. Terese said, 
seems but a short time since I was a child go- 
ing to school. What sport we had, and how 
mad Uncle Hiram used to get and tell Aunt 
Hilda he did not know why she kept such a 
girl. I thought he really disliked me and was 
afraid of him. But finally I became very 
fond of him, for he really seems like an uncle 
to me. Aunt Hilda is like a mother; I shall 
be very homesick.” 

hope you will find your husband better,” 
said May, dislike to care for sick people. 
I cannot endure being where they are.” 

When they reached the station May con- 
tinued, 'Terhaps Aunt Hilda and I shall visit 
you in the summer.” 

Terese smiled brightly, saying, shall be 
delighted if you will.” 

On the train she tried to read a book May 
had given her but could not. In a short 
time she fell asleep and did not awake until 
she had nearly reached her journey’s end. 
There she found her brother waiting for her* 


134 


NEW IRELAND 


While taking her from the train, he said, 
^*You look much better; you have made a 
long visit.’’ 

‘‘Yes,” she said, ‘‘but how is my husband?” 
‘‘He is much better.” 


CHAPTER XIV. 


Having finished her book Eileen took it to 
a publisher who, when he read it, accepted it. 
She was very anxious about it, but knew she 
would have to wait patiently for the effect it 
would have. She wrote to Catherine, telling 
her she was well and that perhaps she would 
go to see them in a few months. As she had 
only a small amount of money she took a 
position as before. 

Her employer was an old lady who, like 
most of her sex was very exacting and judging 
from the way she talked one would think 
she had purchased her for a sum of money. 
Eileen could adapt herself to unpleasant 
circumstances and overlook caprices if she 
saw other qualities that were good. But 
when she found she could not like a person, 
it was hard for her to try. In Mrs. Ray she 
found such a person and in a few days told 
her she did not think she could remain in her 
service. 

^Terhaps you will change your mind,” 
135 


136 NEW IRELAND 


answered Mrs. Ray, ^Vhen you are accus- 
tomed to the work. But if you really feel that 
you cannot stay, I shall try to get someone 
in your place.” 

The next morning she went in quest of a 
maid, but after several hours returned, saying, 
*'She could not get anyone.” Breaking the 
seal of a letter which had laid on the table, 
she said after a few minutes reading, ”A 
daughter of mine who is married and lives 
in Virginia is coming home and is bringing a 
friend with her. You will do me a great 
favor if you will stay while they are here.” 

Eileen felt sorry for the lady and after a 
short meditation, said, ”I will stay.” 

”I have torn the lace on one of my dresses. 
I wish you would mend it ; it is in my dressing 
room.” 

Eileen got it and went to the sewing room. 
When she had nearly finished it, she felt tired 
and sat looking out of the window. She was 
in a deep reverie. Her thoughts were across 
the sea, of Gerald and how much she would like 
to see him, and whether he was making 
any progress in politics. In his last letter he 
had said, ”I am working hard for the cause 
in which you are so deeply interested.” She 
wondered if he had shaken off his pessimistic 
thoughts and was waiting in patience for 


NEW IRELAND 137 


the time when she would be with him. She 
resumed her work and had taken the last 
stitch when Mrs. Ray rang for her. 

Having examined the lace, Mrs. Ray said, 
^^You have done it very nicely. My maid 
who has charge of the dining room is taken 
ill. Will you lay the table for dinner? I 
would have mine brought to my room but 
I just had a telegram from my son who has 
been in Europe telling me he will be here to 
dinner.” 

”I am not accustomed to the work,” ans- 
wered Eileen. ”I am afraid you will not 
find me very skillful, but I shall do what I 
can.” 

Then she went to the kitchen to speak to 
Nora, the cook. ”Never mind,” said the 
latter, **you will get on very well.” 

Between them both the table was soon 
arranged and everything in the dining room 
was ready in time. 

Dinner was announced. 

In a short time she heard footsteps, soft 
voices, and the rustle of silk on the stairs. 
While she waited for them to come in she 
began to wonder what Mr. Ray looked like. 

Just then he entered with his mother and 
led her to the table. He was tall, with light 
eyes and hair. During the dinner he talked 


138 NEW IRELAND 


of the voyage, of the places he traveled and 
the people he met. All was told in a kind, 
unassuming manner. 

Eileen was glad when all had finished. For 
to meet people in this way was what she 
dreaded most. Still she had no occasion for 
such sentiments for she was always treated 
with the utmost respect. 

When she had finished her work, she went 
to her room and forgot the perplexities of 
the day in re-reading her old letters, especially 
the one her mother had left her in the jewel 
box. So far did her fancy take her from her 
true surroundings that when she awoke in 
the morning she was dazed and at first unable 
to realize where she was. 

Soon she roused from her stupor and was 
down stairs beginning her daily duties. She 
took some tea and toast to the sick girl. 
Not finding her much better she told her to 
keep quiet, that she thought she could manage 
her work for her. 

After breakfast Mrs. Ray said, ‘^My son 
has gone boating with a friend. As our 
friends will not come until dinner I shall 
have my lunch in my room.*' 

Strange to say, and also most fortunate, 
most work absorbs the mind and causes 
oblivion of all other things, especially when 


NEW IRELAND 139 


it is something new. So it was with Eileen. 

Mrs. Sutton and her friend Inez Mace 
arrived for dinner. They were both tall and 
stately, wore beautiful gowns and jewels 
and kept up a brilliant and amusing conver- 
sation with Mrs. Ray and her son. After 
dinner they went to the drawing room to 
play and sing for some time. Then the 
ladies retired to their rooms. Mr. Ray went 
to the library to sample some Havanas his 
sister had brought him. 

Some days passed during which Mrs. Ray 
entertained her daughter and friend, giving 
several dinners and receptions. 

It was very evident that Miss Mace was 
fond of Karl’s society. Mrs. Sutton seemed 
to do everything she could to have him more 
attentive to her. He did not see her very 
often except at the table and at the social 
functions when he was kind and attentive 
to her. 

Mrs. Sutton was disappointed. 'T am 
sure,” she said to her mother one day, ‘That 
Karl was fond of Inez. But who is that maid 
Eileen? What do you know about her? 
Where did you get her? I do not see anything 
striking about her, but he seemed to be very 
infatuated with her. When I accused him, 
he did not deny it. The very idea is absurd 


140 NEW IRELAND 


and it quite upsets me to think of such a thing. 
To have him fall in love with a serving-maid. 
The best thing you can do is to send her 
away tomorrow. If you do not, you will 
regret it when it is too late. If you do not 
feel able to go and find someone, I will go 
for you.*’ 

^^I do not think he cares for her, ''scoffed 
Mrs. Ray. "He just did that to tease you. 
I had her only a short time before you came. 
She did not care to stay, but I prevailed on 
her to remain a few weeks. She is very 
satisfactory I must admit, decidedly beyond 
the average. I like her work and she is 
kind and obliging. I am sure it would be 
difficult to find someone who would do as 
well. I do not like to make a scene, and if 
Karl cares for Inez you are taking the wrong 
course. He does not want you nor anyone 
else to dictate for him. You would only 
make matters worse. I know he would not 
think of marrying anyone beneath him.” 

"I do not think he would do it intentionally, 
agreed Mrs. Sutten, "But men get so carried 
away they seem to forget everything. Inez 
and I are going to the city to do some shopping. 
If the weather is not too warm we shall go 
to the theatre in the evening, and I am going 
to try to make Karl accompany us.” 


NEW IRELAND 141 


She finished speaking, and as she left the 
room she met Karl coming out of the Library. 
From the expression of his face she knew he 
had heard the conversation and was riot in a 
pleasant mood. When questioned about his 
plans he said, ‘‘J^ck and I are going boating 
for the day and we expect to take the late 
evening train for New York to enable us to 
see the horse show tomorrow. We shall be 
away three or four days.** 

wish you would stay quiet for a short 
while, Karl,** said his mother coaxingly. 
*^1 have scarcely seen you since you returned. 
I counted on having you help me entertain 
Inez.** 

^*1 am surprised you planned anything for 
me, mother; I hope you have not forgotten 
the many disappointments you have had on 
such previous occasions.** Without saying 
more he went out of the house, down the 
broad avenue. 

His mother sat watching him until he was 
obscured by the dense foliage of the tree. 
When she turned back to the room Inez stood 
in the doorway ready for the journey. 
Drawing on her gloves, the latter exclaimed, 
'‘Mrs. Ray, are you not going to join us?** 

“I think not,** said Mrs. Ray, “I fear it 
would be too fatiguing for me. An old 


142 NEW IRELAND 


friend has invited me to dinner. That will 
be a good way to spend the day. I regret 
Karl cannot accompany you. He has made 
arrangements with his friend.^* 

'^It does not matter. He would have to 
keep his appointement of course.** 

^'Are you ready, Inez?** called Mrs. Sutton 
from the foot of the stairs. 

have been ready a long time,** she 
answered . * H have been trying to persuade 

your mother to come with us but I have not 
succeeded. Good-bye, Mrs. Ray,** she nod- 
ded cheerfully and hurried down to the door. 


CHAPTER XV. 


When Mrs. Ray was alone Eileen came in 
with some flowers that had been sent to her. 
^^How beautiful!’' she exclaimed. Then she 
looked at the card and while Eileen was 
arranging the flowers she said, ^‘The woman 
who sent them has a large conservatory and 
a great variety of flowers. I wish you could 
see them. I call there often, so you must go 
with me some day.” 

^‘Thank you,” said Eileen. am very 
fond of flowers and like to see them grow.” 
There was a pause while she finished her task, 
then she asked, 'What will I do today, Mrs. 
Ray?” 

"As I am going out to dinner and shall not 
return until late you will have the day to 
yourself. Dr. Emerson has many times 
invited you to sail over to Rock Island. He 
is here now and spoke about going this after- 
noon. I think it would be pleasant for you. 
If you care about it, I will speak to him.” 

In a short time she returned, saying, "Yes, 
143 


144 NEW IRELAND 


he will be delighted to have you. He will 
meet you at the wharf at two o’clock. There 
is a hospital on the island supported by the 
city for the benefit of poor sick children and 
the doctor has charge of it.” 

She sat down and Eileen arranged her hair 
and helped her to dress, then accompanied 
her to the carriage. 

At the appointed time Eileen was at the 
wharf, and the doctor arrived soon after. 
After talking a few moments they walked to 
the boat, a small tug kept for the service of 
the hospital. A number of people were 
already in the boat. The doctor introduced 
Eileen to some of the women who were to 
look after the nurses in charge of the children 
at the hospital. 

She found the ladies very interesting and 
greatly enjoyed the scenery and the ocean 
breeze. The island was very pretty. The 
hospital was a plain looking building. In it 
were about one hundred children and although 
they were all afflicted in some way, only a 
few were confined to the hospital. As they 
had special hours for sports they were being 
instructed in singing. Eileen enjoyed the 
sound of their sweet young voices, but could 
scarcely refrain from weeping to think of 
them with those dire diseases and wondered 


NEW IRELAND 


145 


if they would ever be well and strong. 

The doctor had finished caring for the sick, 
had gone through the general routine, and 
they were returning. They had sailed but 
a short distance, the sky which had been very 
bright suddenly became darkened and the 
loud peals of thunder echoed through the 
dense forest and rocky crags. A fierce gale 
of wind moaned and hurled the descending 
rain in wild torrents on the white angry 
waves which threatened disaster to the boat. 
All were much frightened but before they had 
reached the shore the storm had subsided and 
they saw the doctor’s coach waiting for them. 
While riding home Eileen learned many inter- 
esting things about the hospital, its nurses 
and patients. When she was about to get 
out she told the doctor how much she had 
enjoyed the afternoon. But he laughing 
shook his head, saying: 'T am afraid that 
storm spoiled it all.” 

”No, indeed,” answered Eileen, ”those 
storms are often beneficial and should be 
looked at that way.” 

When she entered the house it was near 
dinner time. Nora was busy but stopped her 
work to go to her, saying, ”Dear child I was 
just speaking about you, wondering if you 
were in the storm. You must have been 


146 NEW IRELAND 


terribly frightened/’ She began to lay the 
table. ‘‘You must be hungry. I have just 
cooked some nice steak.” 

‘Good,’ said Eileen,. “Come sit down with 
me and I shall tell you about the hospital.” 

Eileen repeated many of the stories she 
had heard during the afternoon, but only 
the pleasant ones, for she herself disliked even 
to think about the rest. She also described 
the storm and the sail, telling Nora how lovely 
it all was and also that it was very thoughtful 
of Mrs. Ray to ask the doctor. 

“Do you like Mrs. Ray?” queried Nora. 

“Yes, very much.” 

“You didn’t at first.” 

“No, not until I got acquainted with her.” 

“Do you expect to remain long?” 

“I do not know; the work is not hard.” 

“It must be very hard for you having no 
friends. I cculd not endure it if it were not 
for my sister.” 

“I found it very unpleasant at first, but 
now I do not mind it so much. My work 
occupies my mind and I am fond of reading.” 

Having helped Nora clean the table and 
wash the dishes Eileen went to her room and 
finished some sewing Mrs. Ray had given her 
to do. 


NEW IRELAND 147 


Several weeks passed away quickly and 
Mrs. Sutton and her friend had returned to 
Virginia. 

Eileen regretted their departure for al- 
though she was not much in their company she 
had grown to like them. They also became 
very fond of her, for although Mrs. Sutton 
was displeased and disappointed in not being 
successful in making a match between Inez 
and Karl, she did not think Eileen had any- 
thing to do in the matter. 

After their departure the house was very 
quiet. Mrs. Ray said, ‘T am tired; I cannot 
endure so much noise and confusion since my 
recent illness. My daughter wishes me to 
spend the winter with her, but I do not think 
I shall, for I do not care to leave Karl alone. 
I wish he would marry and settle down. 
People who do not are very restless, I think; 
especially men. I should be delighted if he 
would marry Miss Inez. She is very wealthy 
and comes of good English people, who are 
considered one of the first families in Virginia.’’ 

Eileen smiled, ^T thought Americans did 
not believe in blood and nobility. It is 
amusing to hear them speak of their ancestors 
here in New England. Of those of English 
extraction, the puritans consider themselves 
the best and noblest. Now the meaning of 


148 NEW IRELAND 


noble blood is antiquity of family distinction 
by rank and station and title, and as their 
station required education and good breeding 
they were supposed to be a superior class. 
And as they were descendants of chieftains 
and conquerors they were the law makers. 
They were supposed to be above anything 
mean and degrading, but unfortunately most 
of them became degenerate, proud and selfish, 
causing much sorrow and trouble in the world. 
Speaking of those who settled this country, 
making it the home of the oppressed, they 
were not of that class. They were those who 
toiled in many discouraging hardships and 
laid the foundation of what it has become. 
What is the outcome of it all? It is the 
same old story; a conspiracy against justice. 

^'Yes, we feel the pinch of prosperity. 
Graft and the trusts are doing their deadly 
work. 

'‘At the time of the revolutionary war the 
people were of a different make-up. They 
were men of equality. They knew the con- 
tempt and disdain of those who had political 
power and whether they got their possessions 
by fair or foul means did not matter. All 
beneath their sphere of life were not consider- 
ed. The law was made to suit them. What 
is America today? The rich against the poor. 


NEW IRELAND 149 


In the last twenty years what would have 
become of the laborers if it were not for the 
unions. What would capitalists do if they 
were not restrained? It is evident that a 
great number of them are trying to have a 
few get control of all. It is very unjust and 
in reality is against our principles of govern- 
ment; should they succeed they would place 
the country in a very dangerous condition.** 

'^I have given the matter little or no thought 
or consideration,’* answered Mrs. Ray. “For 
I consider it of no special importance to our 
sex as they have nothing to do in making the 
laws. And in fact I care very little about 
history and literature more than to read 
something that is not too tiresome.** 

“All have their own special tastes and 
hobbies which give them pleasure and re- 
creation,** replied Eileen. Then she went 
to the sewing room to mend some of Mrs. 
Ray’s garments. 

All the days seemed to drag very slowly. 
She was anxious to hear how her book took, 
and was not astonished to hear it severely 
criticized. She knew that it must have 
made an impression since it had been given 
so much attention. 

She received a letter from Catherine saying 
that her father was ill and would like to have 


150 


NEW IRELAND 


her come home as he longed to see her. She 
told Mrs. Ray that she had some relatives 
in New York and she was going to stay with 
them for some time, as she thought a rest 
would benefit her. 

shall be glad to have you return, if you 
wish to,*’ said Mrs. Ray when she felt she 
could no longer detain her. 


CHAPTER XVI. 

When Eileen arrived home all were glad to 
see her and congratulated her on her success. 
While they were discussing it Eileen said, 

suppose if it had been a failure you would 
have thought me foolish to waste my time 
so.'’ 

^^Yes, we should have, I suppose," answered 
Catherine. *‘But as it is I think you deserve 
much credit." 

Eileen spent most of her time with her 
uncle, Mr. Daly. As his health was very 
poor, he assured her, “It relieves me to have 
you with me. I am very lonely when you 
are not with us." 

^Tt was much better for me to be away," 
she answered, “and I had a pleasant time. 
Of course without going away I never could 
have written the book." 

The book really took well, and gradually 
became very popular. There was much talk 
about it, many reading it just for curiosity 
and finding it very interesting. Finally 
151 


152 NEW IRELAND 


there was some talk of having it dramatized . 
Some thought it was just what would take. 

One year after publication it was ready for 
the stage. Then there was much talk about 
who would take the role of heroine. It had 
been decided, but was not publicly known 
that Eileen would take it herself. Some of 
the actresses were disappointed and thought 
it would be much better if one of them had 
been chosen, while others said it would be 
just the thing to have the authoress, for she 
would be more sincere and natural. 

When her book was finished and published 
Eileen had sent a copy to Gerald. He com- 
plimented her very much and wrote often, 
saying he expected to go to America in a short 
time and could see no reason why she could 
not return with him. She always wrote the 
same answer, '"Not yet, but I shall let you 
know,*' When she went on the stage she 
did not tell him. 

She had been enacting her play a month. 
One evening when she had finished and was 
about to put on her wrap, there was a knock 
at the door. Opening the door she was 
presented with a visiting card. Glancing 
at it, she was almost overpowered when she 
read the name. ‘Tell the gentleman I will 
see him,^’ she said quickly. In a moment 


NEW IRELAND 153 


Gerald stood before her, and as he took her 
hand she said softly, am surprised to see 
you/’ 

“I suppose you are,” he answered trying 
to be severe, ”and I am surprised to find you 
here.” 

”I need not ask if you are displeased,” she 
said almost sorrowfully, ”for your face tells 
me you are.” 

He took up her cloak and gently wrapped it 
round her, saying, ”May I escort you to your 
hotel?” 

She took his arm. No more was said until 
they were both seated in the carriage. 

Eileen broke the silence, ”What time did 
you arrive?” 

”Just this afternoon. I have had scarcely 
time to reach the theatre before you entered 
in the play. I was anxious to see if you were 
really on the stage. I thought there must be 
some mistake about it. But I found all too 
true.” As he spoke he felt her shudder. 
”Eileen,” he said earnestly, ”you are tired 
and nervous. I will not excite you more 
tonight. Will it be convenient to see me in 
the morning? ” 

The carriage stopped at the hotel, he walked 
to the door with her and bade her good-night. 

She entered her room and ordered a light 


154 NEW IRELAND 


lunch, which was brought up in a short time- 
As she sat eating she thought of Gerald and 
what he would say. Shortly after she finished 
she retired and fell into a restless sleep. She 
dreamed of Gerald, and thought he was very 
much displeased with her; she could see the 
steamer that was taking him back to England 
and she felt very lonely. Toward morning 
she fell into a sound sleep and did not wake 
until it was late. She realized she must hurry 
for Gerald was to see her at eleven and it was 
after ten now. She had scarcely time to 
get breakfast. 

Just on the hour he appeared. 

^^You are very punctual,” she laughed. 
As they sat down, she noticed that the hard 
expression he had worn the night before had 
disappeared. 

They talked about the weather and the 
city until both felt they could no longer put 
off what really affected them most. After 
an expressive pause, Gerald said, was glad 
to hear that your book was accepted and having 
a good sale. But when I saw that it had been 
dramatized and the authoress was acting it 
I could scarcely believe it true. I did not 
think you would take such a step without 
consulting me. Do you think it was quite 
right for you to do so?” 


NEW IRELAND 


155 


She hesitated a moment, thought 
you would not approve of it, but as I felt it 
my duty I did it. In regard to you perhaps 
I did wrong.'' She looked at him pleadingly ^ 
^^Gerald, I did not like to displease you." 

‘Eileen," he said half impatiently, “I do 
not understand you, just as I said when you 
refused to marry me as I wished. You said 
you could not then on account of your book* 
Did you have any idea of going on the stage?" 

“Yes, I did." 

“That is what I cannot understand. Are 
you ambitious or have you such intense 
love for Ireland?" 

“You may call it what you will. I felt 
it was a work I must do, and I could not 
accomplish it if I did not go behind the foot- 
lights. Perhaps it was wrong for me to ac- 
cept you, but I release you." 

“I came to talk to you and plead with you 
to give it up, but I see it is of no use. I con- 
sider you very unwise to refuse rest and a quiet 
home and life for this unsettled one. I see 
you are very willing to cast me aside. I sup- 
pose you expect to make a far more brilliant 
match?" 

He was sitting beside her and as he finished 
speaking he took one of her small hands and 
pressed it to his lips. She looked at him 


156 NEW IRELAND 


with earnest, pleading eyes, saying, ‘‘Gerald, 
why do you doubt me?*’ 

“I do not. But you will not consider the 
position you are in nor what temptations are 
before you.” 

“Those come to all and in all walks of life; 
it depends on oneself to resist. I should 
think myself very insincere and unworthy 
of you if I gave way to them. I do not think 
I shall have much to contend with in that line. 
You must not think that because you are 
attracted, others will be. It makes me very 
angry to hear you say I do it just to please 
my pride and ambition and when I tell you 
I release you, you say I do not care for you. 
We had better stop the dispute.” 

Then she rose and stood before him. 
“Gerald, you know I wanted you to help me 
with my work.” 

“I will do anything I can to assist you at 
any time. But one thing you must remember 
I release you, you are at liberty to choose 
another if you wish.” 

“Is it because I remain at my work and 
you wish me to give it up, or are you too 
proud to care for an actress?” 

“Not exactly the latter, for I can never 
think of you as one.” 

‘We shall not talk any more about the mat- 


NEW IRELAND 157 


ter,” said Eileen rather sadly but firmly. 
“I shall continue to write to you in the future, 
as I have in the past, and when I want your 
assistance — you will come?” 

“Yes, although I know not what it will be. 
You keep me disturbed and anxious, I cannot 
understand you.” 

“In time you will. Do you expect to re- 
main long in the city?” 

“Yes, some time. Just how long I do not 
know.” 

“Then I shall see you often if you wish. I 
know you will find much in the city to interest 
you most of the time, then you know I have 
but one evening and I should be glad to have 
you spend it with me.” 

“I shall be glad to.” He took her hand, 
pressed it for a moment, and was gone. 


CHAPTER XVIL 


The book had been published in New York 
City. It was played there. The first night 
the house was well filled. The act began 
with a Christmas scene which was grand and 
impressive and could not fail to please and 
attract all. The second and third were very 
interesting and greatly appreciated. The 
interludes between the acts and important 
scenes were the tableaux and monologues per* 
taining to the history of Ireland. Among the 
patriots represented stood out O’Connell 
who gained religious freedom for Ireland, 
the martyr Emmett who perished in the cause 
of self-government and O’Brien exiled in the 
same cause. These aroused the enthusiasm 
of the audience and created the atmosphere 
necessary for the realism of the drama. It 
took some time to quiet the cheers and ap- 
plauding for the Celt felt that somehow his 
country would and must be free. Did the 
memory of the old warriors give them cour- 
age and assurance? And how was it to be 
158 


NEW IRELAND 159 


won — ^with the sword and battle? No, for 
the time of warriors is gone forever from the 
old Ireland. 

Eileen played every night for three months 
in New York to full houses. There was much 
talk and comment about it. Each night the 
audience was brought into sympathy with 
the work she longed to accomplish. All the 
opposite sex were at her feet, and she would 
sway them as she willed. Many of them 
offered her heart and hand, wealth and posi- 
tion instead of the life she lived. She declined 
all, saying she must keep at her work. Al- 
though some of her own sex were uncharitable, 
saying she was doing it all for effect, the most 
of them admired her, calling her good and 
noble and promising to assist her in any way 
they could. 

One night the audience called the authoress 
and demanded a speech. Eileen was eager 
to instruct them, but had no intention of 
giving them a speech and naturally had pre- 
pared none. As they insisted, she had to 
respond and could only pour from her heart 
all the wrongs she had witnessed and sug- 
gest their cure by the ideas and schemes she 
had cherished so long. 

*T know,’’ she said after a few introduc- 
tory words, ^'that the country will never be 


160 NEW IRELAND 


prosperous until the land has all been pur- 
chased from the English. I admit that the 
politicians have gained many points but they 
have not affected the country very much for 
the best. The leagues have given enough 
money to purchase the whole island. Whether 
it has all been spent in a profitable way I 
cannot say. But I am only too fully aware 
of the condition of the country. Every 
business of any consequence is in the hands of 
the English. Those of our own nationality 
who have a little something are not over 
kind to their brethren. The old customs 
and laws of the Celts which were kept and 
practiced have disappeared and selfishness 
and injustice have taken their place. 

^'Does not this country, although some 
people do not like to admit it, owe much to 
Ireland? For in a great measure they had 
much to do in the building up of the country, 
and it cannot be said that they ever proved 
themselves unworthy of the rights and free- 
dom given them in their adopted country. 

‘Then we come face to face with the great 
question. In what way does Ireland seek 
aid? Is it by procuring more money to fight 
the lords? Yes, but in a different way. 
Has not this country helped others, and even 
purchase them? I know it can aid our coun- 


NEW IRELAND 161 


try and give it the boon and gift it has so 
long sought in vain. It will require money 
enough to purchase all the land. How is it 
going to be acquired? You will say England 
has already taken that step. Yes, it has, 
but in fact there has been but very little 
purchased.” 

Clearly Eileen placed the case before them, 
then she said, feelingly, ”I ask you to consi- 
der this matter. Will my efforts be in vain? 
Can I not awaken your sympathy to aid a 
poor and struggling people? I hope each 
night as I stand before you, you will resolve 
to help. You will say that the English govern- 
ment is buying the land from the lords and 
enabling the Irish to buy it. But I know it 
is doing very little in that line and in fact 
the step it has taken only aggravates the 
people and will keep the country in its present 
condition as long as possible. For some 
reason England does not like to relent to old 
Erin. The government would consider it 
had no special cases to settle and since the 
affair has been before them for such a long 
time it must be gratifying for them to know 
they hold sway over the rebel Celts. 

”Just at present it is probably that she 
would find plenty to do in settling the affairs 
of her own people.” 


162 NEW IRELAND 


Eileen was aware that she had impressed 
her audience and forced it to think the matter 
over, especially those of Celtic origin. 

Each evening Eileen gained new admirers 
and exponents of her cause, but as yet no 
step had been taken. After some time she 
made the acquaintance of a M r. Collins who 
was one of the leading politicians in Tammany. 

She discussed the matter with him, he 
admitted that her idea was very good. She 
jestingly said, ‘'Can you not help me? Why 
do you not form an association to raise money 
for the purpose? Of course you understand 
the money would be taken as a loan at a 
certain per cent.” 

‘T am afraid the work will require a very 
large amount of money and much time and 
labor to accomplish it.” 

“Yes, I know that well,” answered Eileen, 
“yet it is the only way to benefit the people.” 

As he started to leave he said, “It is a great 
work to accomplish but I think it can be 
done. In the first place we shall have to 
get an estimate of the land for sale and of 
course the whole amount will be little less 
than enormous.” 

“I think you will find it can be bought with 
less than you expect. At least such an idea 
should not interfere with working for the 


NEW IRELAND 163 


cause. Things which often seem very diffi- 
cult and perplexing are easily done when 
undertaken by those who are earnest.” 

He smiled and bidding her good morning 
said, ‘T shall call and let you know what I 
decide about the matter,” 

When he had gone Eileen thought as she 
had nothing especial to go out after and the 
weather was anything but pleasant that she 
would embroider. In a short time she tired 
of it and fell asleep, awakening only shortly 
before dinner time. 

That evening she went to the theatre as 
usual. It occurred to her as she noted the 
full house, one thing at least is in my favor, 
the people are always glad to see me. 

So another week passed. One morning 
when she was ready to go out for a walk, 
there was a knock at the door. Opening it 
she found Mr. Collins there. 

^'Good-morning,” said Eileen. "Won’t you 
come in? I am very glad to see you. I 
thought you had forgotten me.” 

"No indeed, but my office work and my 
trying to aid you and yours has kept me very 
busy. I have talked to several of my friends 
and found them interested, I told them of a 
play now running which solves the Irish pro- 
blem and that I saw no reason why it could 


164 NEW IRELAND 


not be realized. They thought there was 
something in it. So a few days ago we 
started an association, and for a beginning 
it is very good. We must get the work es- 
tablished, for all who wish can contribute. I 
expect large amounts to come and I suppose 
some time must elapse before the work can 
commence.’' 

am delighted to have the work begun,” 
said Eileen much pleased, ”and I am sure 
that in time all will be accomplished.” 

”As I am interested in having the work 
done I hope you will not consider me 
impertinent if I ask what your plans are. 
Do you intend to stay on the stage? And if so, 
are you going to remain in this city?” 

”Not at all,” answered Eileen. am 
only too glad to inform you that I am going 
to remain an indefinite time, but expect to 
leave this city in a few weeks. Not but that 
I drew full houses and regret leaving. But 
somehow there is no place like New York. 
As I must go through all the principal cities, 
I must begin. I have to get the people inter- 
ested.” 

”You do not expect to work all the time. 
You must get some rest.” 

”Oh, I do,” answered Eileen. ”But I do 
not expect to be idle. I find the changing 


NEW IRELAND 


from one kind of work to another is very 
good, and better perhaps than complete rest. 
And as I have much to do I shall be able to 
give some time to many things that at pre- 
sent I have no time for,” 

“You are very ambitious Miss De Clair. 
I hope you will not overdo. For I perceive 
you seem to be forgetful of all but the work 
you have taken upon yourself.” 

“You speak of my being ambitious, you 
know there are different kinds, one is to gain 
honor and favor, often to gratify some vanity, 
another is to do some special work. I do 
not know to which you refer me. But I 
assure you my aim is to try to help the poor 
and distressed people.” 

“Indeed I do not think you are insincere 
in what you say and I think you possess 
more than the usual amount of sympathy.” 
He rose, saying, “I have talked longer than I 
expected and I hope I haven't taken too 
much of your time.” 

“It,” returned Eileen, “has afforded me 
much pleasure, and as you have been so very 
kind in trying to acquire what I am so earn- 
estly endeavoring to do. I shall always 
think I owe you a great debt of gratitude.” 

“I wish you success,” he concluded, bowing, 
“Good-morning.” 


CHAPTER XVIIL 

The next day was Sunday and as Eileen 
had just returned from church and was about 
to enter her room she heard footsteps at the 
other end of the hall and looking she saw it 
was Gerald. Smiling, she paused at the 
threshold until he reached her and stretching 
out her hand, she said, ‘T have been thinking 
of you. I was anxious as I have not seen you 
for so long.” 

When she was seated, he began, ^T am very 
glad to see you, as I have been ill for a few 
days. I was going to write to you but as it 
was nothing serious I decided not to, for I 
thought the news would only worry you. 
But I see you have worried just the same.” 

‘'Why shouldn’t I? You know I have 
very few acquaintances here and would rather 
see you than any one else.” 

‘T had almost forgotten why I came here 
at this time of day. I should be pleased to 
have you dine with me, that is if you have no 
other engagement.” 


166 


NEW IRELAND 167 


‘‘Noj I have not, and I am delighted to 
accept your invitation.’' and looking at the 
clock she asked, **At what time do you usually 
have dinner?” 

''At three o’clock. You know it is some 
distance from here, so we shall have just time 
to get there comfortably.” 

As they were driven through the long, 
spacious streets Gerald said, "I like this city 
very much, I found it far beyond my expec- 
tations, for the short time that had been 
given to build it up. The people are much 
more energetic than the English, for all 
classes seem to have their special work.” 

"Yes,” said Eileen, "all Americans are 
supposed to have some occupation, but at 
the present time it is a mere pretense among 
the wealthy.” 

They had reached the hotel, and were soon 
at the table. During the dinner they con- 
tinued to discuss the city and people they had 
met there. 

When it was over and they were returning, 
Gerald asked, "Have you made any plans 
for the evening, Eileen?” 

"No, but I prefer to have you stay and 
spend the evening with me. I have some- 
thing special to tell you.” 

Shortly after they returned the weather 


168 NEW IRELAND 


which had been warm suddenly changed to a 
cold, dismal evening, sobbing winds and the 
ceaseless patter of rain made the outer world 
seem dreary, in comparison with the genial 
atmosphere of the cosey little parlor. 

When they were settled, Gerald said, “Well, 
what are you going to tell me?“ 

“I have somewhat obtained what I so 
earnestly desired through the efforts of an 
influential person, a Mr. Collins. He formed 
an association for the purpose of getting 
money to purchase the land. I want your 
assistance. I’d like to have you help the cause. 
You can help a great deal with the finances.” 

Looking at her with an astonished expres- 
sion, he said, “It seems you would like me 
to profit much by the work which in reality 
I do not care for, as it is rather a political 
affair and I never had any desire for such 
work.” 

“My reason for desiring you to do so is I 
believe you to be honest and upright and 
would try as far as possible to see that the 
money is used in the proper way. And then 
it should be done by as few persons as possi >le, 
for all such affairs are carried on in such a 
way that the men who have charge of them 
get all the money and very little goes to the 
real work.” 


NEW IRELAND 169 


''I suppose you will demand a strict account 
of every farthing and I feel much flattered 
by the high opinion you have of me.*' 

**rd like you to meet Mr. Collins who has 
charge of the association; you will find him 
very pleasant and interesting. He will be 
glad to find you so willing to carry on the 
work. I supppose you are anxious to know 
what I am going to do.'* 

Having told him he answered firmly, 
see you insist on having your own way, 
and it will be useless for me to urge you to do 
otherwise. As you are going to leave New 
York we shall be further apart." 

"You will be busy; the time will go much 
more quickly than you anticipate, and es- 
pecially because it is to help others I find it so, 
because when we have all our selfish motives 
realized we are not satisfied and we start in 
pursuit of something else. I thought too 
that you would like to return to England for 
a while." 

"Yes, I was anxious to return but now I 
realize how hard it is to leave and especially 
when I think of you going far away among 
strangers to continue a work which is much 
more than you are able to do. You will 
find it is the excitement of work that keeps 
you from realizing just how tired and unfitted 


170 NEW IRELAND 


you are to work. Those people whom you 
struggle so earnestly to aid and uplift, will 
they in any way consider or even feel grate- 
ful for the service you give them?” 

”I know that they are really in need and if 
they are so void of gratitude they are all the 
more to be pitied than to be blamed. If I 
can be the means of assisting them I shall 
feel recompensed by being able to do so.” 

Rising, she went to the table, turned on 
the electricity, saying, am sorry to have 
been the cause of your unhappiness.” 

‘^Do not be angry. You do not understand 
me and although you refuse to do what I 
consider better for you I should be miserable 
in not serving you. It is late now and I have 
to start early, it is so far away.” 

In a few weeks Eileen had finished her work 
in the city and was preparing to take her 
leave and begin work elsewhere. She was 
packing and arranging for the journey, when 
Gerald arrived to accompany her to the 
station. She was stooping over putting 
some things in a small hand bag when he 
stood beside her, saying, ‘'Is it entirely use- 
less for me to ask you to reconsider your 
decision?” 

“Yes, for I feel that duty demands, but 
not the duty of sorrow and despair but that 


NEW IRELAND 171 


duty whose stern features with commanding 
hand points beyond the darkened clouds to 
a clear sky.” 

“But if you stop to consider do you not 
think that you will find that you are anxious 
to climb the summit to reach a place beside 
those who have become lights in the temple 
of fame.” 

“Perhaps it appears to you like that, but 
not so to me. I should feel like the sluggard 
who did not try to make use of his talents.” 

Having put on her hat and coat Eileen 
said simply, “I am ready.” 

They found the carriage waiting for them. 

“I dislike traveling by train,” said Eileen, 
trying to start a conversation, “it is tiresome 
and monotonous.” 

“Yes,” agreed Gerald, “I think when one 
is alone it is very much so.” 

They arrived at the station where he pro- 
cured her ticket and looked after her baggage, 
then went with her to the train. They talked 
on indifferent subjects until the chug-chug of 
the engine announced that the moment of 
separation had come. 


CHAPTER XIX, 

When the landlords found what course the 
Celts had taken to get possession of the land, 
they opposed it strongly. But the question 
was put clearly before them that it had been 
granted by the government and why did they 
not carry it out? The people wanted the 
land but could not get it because the money 
was not given. One part of the house was 
willing to submit it, but the other was not 
and finally it was left for the people to vote 
on. A fierce and hot political fight ensued 
which ended in favor of the Celts. 

Eileen had toured nearly all the United 
States and was very successful in all places. 
In a few years all the land had been purchased. 
Gerald had worked with unceasing effort to 
have the lands bought to the best advantage 
and was surprised, could scarcely believe that 
he could ever become so deeply interested in 
politics. 

Then as the land was in the possession of 
the people there was no reason why they 


172 


NEW IRELAND 173 


could not have self-government. But as 
yet the old fight was on; no special 
change had been made in the government. 

Thus the Celts were not satisfied, they 
wished to rid themselves entirely of the Eng- 
lish. They longed for full control of their 
country, not that they did not appreciate 
the democratic English but these latter 
did not have charge of the government. 
And why could they not assist them? It 
would take nothing from them. They are 
aware that the government is not all for their 
benefit, and themselves desire some changes. 
Thus they sympathized with the Celts, 
became interested in their cause and fought 
the lords. But as in the case of the land they 
could not come to any agreement, it was 
left again for the people to decide. There 
was an exciting struggle which ended in the 
defeat of the lords. At last Erin was free. 
There was great enthusiasm and rejoicing 
not alone in Ireland but in whatever land 
a Celt dwelt. 

They appointed one of the leading politi- 
cians to take charge of the government until 
some one had been elected president. 

But just at the present the great question 
is how is the island going to be guarded? 
Iso stbales utt ia in a navy to protect it or 


174 NEW IRELAND 


will it have to appeal to other nations, and 
will it refuse to do so? There was much talk 
and considerations as to what they should do. 
Finally it was decided to invite delegates 
from several countries to make a peace con- 
ference. 

Then the last effort to complete the work 
had to be made; it was necessary to have some 
one to take charge of the government, so 
two were nominated. As Mr. Dougherty 
had been the leader he was chosen with Gerald. 
The latter did not like to accept. He said 
he had been only a short time in the service 
of the country. But the people clamored 
for him, saying he was the one who had gained 
all, and as there must be two they would not 
think of having anyone else. Finally he 
accepted. 

Then at last the Celts were to elect the 
man of their choice. It was in the first of 
the year the work was begun and it was to 
be finished in the early spring. There was 
much talk and excitement about the two 
men who were nominated, and it was ac- 
knowledged a close choice between them. 

About the middle of February the date of 
the event had been set; it was to take place 
the last Tuesday of the month. 

Finally it was the eve of the great day and 


NEW IRELAND 175 


as the Vesper bells rang in all the churches 
throughout the country, all gathered in 
prayer. There were people who wept tears 
of joy when they thought that the days of 
their hard, weary struggle were ended. 

A rainbow tinted sky in the eastern horizon 
ushered in the light of morning. The sun 
arose in golden radiance, and cast its cheering 
rays on all. Was it prophetic of a clearer, 
brighter dawn to a country where gloom and 
sorrow had so long prevailed? 

The contest began. Although there was 
much enthusiasm, all kept very orderly and 
quiet until the polls were closed. Then there 
was much excitement and conjecture as to 
who would be the winner. 

At the first report it seemed to be Andrew 
Dougherty. But when all was finally sum- 
med up, Gerald was at the head as president^ 
with Mr. Dougherty as vice-president.. 
There was much demonstration and all 
seemed to be satisfied at the result. 

Then it was decided that the inauguration 
would take place in a month as nothing 
definite could be done until after that. 

Gerald gave a short address about the day, 
saying, ^Tt is to be the day of great importance 
to all, and cannot pass without celebration, 
but I know that however elaborate, it will 


176 NEW IRELAND 


fail to fully express the feeling of joy and 
gratitude all should feel. It is not the proper 
thing, I think, to spend a large amount of 
money for a celebration. As the country is 
just starting on a prosperous condition it 
would be well to economize from the begin- 
ning and in time you will have a country able 
to take its place among the nations of the 
world. As for me I shall do all in my power 
to make it such. We have no great army 
nor navy to make a display but I wish you 
would all attend and join in celebrating the 
day. As the country has been misgovern- 
ed for centuries, it will take time to efface its 
effects in the condition of the people. The 
one great need is to have industries to give 
them employment and I feel certain that the 
government will be able to furnish some means 
in a short time. That will be the beginning 
of obtaining the money which the country’s 
needs require.” 

A few weeks passed and the day of the in- 
auguration came. The weather was fine and 
there was much patriotic demonstration 
throughout the land. The old Celtic city 
never even in the days of yore witnessed such 
enthusiastic rejoicing. People came from 
all parts of the country to participate in the 
event. There were many from the United 


NEW IRELAND 177 


States, and the city was filled with all classes 
of people who were anxious to witness the 
ceremonies. 

The marshal and the guards headed the 
procession, then came Gerald and Mr. Dough- 
erty with two of the political leaders. They 
were followed by all the members of the cabi- 
net. Then came the army and navy, both 
very small. Several hundred from each 
county marched in the uniforms which the 
old Celtic soldiers had worn. Many bands 
did justice in celebrating the Celtic patriotic 
songs. The waving of emerald flags with 
their gold harps were cheered lustily as the 
procession passed from street to street, to the 
castle on the grounds of which a platform had 
been erected where before the cabinet and 
all the people Gerald was to take the oath of 
office. 

Everything had been arranged as well as 
possible for the comfort of the people in seeing 
that all were provided with food and shelter 
during their visit. Nearly all the visitors 
left the city after the inauguration had taken 
place. The sun flooded the old beautiful 
city with light and cheer. Its last golden 
rays lingered on the government building, 
formerly the Dublin castle, where at last one 
of Erin’s own sons presides to see that the 


178 NEW IRELAND 


desires of the people are considered and ful- 
filled. 

Gerald feels that he has much to keep him 
busy for some time, arranging the house to 
put it in Celtic style. All the interior was 
to be relieved of anything English, the peo- 
ple wished the Celtic to take its place. 
And he himself had observed in his many 
travels that the Celts possessed a special 
and peculiar taste of their own which is pleas- 
ing and attractive to all. 


CHAPTER XX. 

Mr. Daly’s health gradually became worse 
and before Eileen left for Ireland he was laid 
to rest beneath the shade of the oak trees 
which grew in the pretty burial plot of the 
city where all sleep until another morning 
will waken them from their slumber. Mrs. 
Daly rented the place and went to live with 
the Carey family who were well and greatly 
enjoying life. Mr. Carey said, 'T should like 
to see the dear old land beyond the sea, but 
then nearly all my friends and relatives have 
passed to a better world and a visit would not 
afford me much pleasure.” 

Uncle Hiram and Aunt Hilda are still at 
their daily tasks. Terese’s husband’s illness 
ended in a severe throat trouble which was 
the cause of his death. She came back to 
live with them. Aunt Hilda says she is a 
great comfort. 

Paul made an extensive tour of Europe and 
during his travels met a pretty southern girl 
and shortly after returning home he married 
her. 


179 


180 NEW IRELAND 


O’Neil is fast becoming one of the leading 
politicians in his section of the state, and has 
changed his opinion of the gentler sex for 
rumor says he will soon wed May Earle. 

Frances’ husband, whose money was in a 
bank which became insolvent, lost nearly 
all. They were left with scarcely enough to 
live on, even in moderate circumstances. 

The indians who always attended the an- 
nual county fair, where they sold many of 
their baskets, met some old acquaintances 
and went to live with them in the western 
part of the state. 

Catherine married a Mr. Howard Loring 
who is a member of a large starch factory in 
one of the cities a short distance from the 
village of Algonquin. 

Edward is still at his business. Lou has 
charge of the cottage and looks out for his 
welfare. 

Thus dull and monotonous as their lives may 
have seemed, all who kept in mind the three 
imperishable Celtic virtues, kindness, in- 
dependence and education were happy in 
their own way. The happiest and most 
prosperous years in the life of a country are 
those unrecorded in history. 


CHAPTER XXL 


Gradually all began to work in harmony 
and the people began to take heart and cheer. 
At times if any little dissatisfactions arose 
here and there, Gerald addressed them, say- 
ing, ''You cannot expect that all will be ac- 
complished at once. With patience and dili- 
gence the end will be realized before much 
time had elapsed. All must take active part 
in the government and must try to study and 
acquire a knowledge that will prove a benefit 
to the country and teach others. For this 
is what our statue represents, a new Ireland, 
not the old weeping Rosaleen, but youth 
holding aloft a torch to all. When you stop 
and consider the past, the unrelenting strug- 
gle which ihould be an encouraging example 
and know that you are living to see the coun- 
try in the hands of its own people, you will 
realize that history has no parallel of a 
people who possess so much affection for 
their country, who, although they were 
driven to all parts of the world, to countries 
181 


182 NEW IRELAND 


far more fair, never forgot the old land that 
gave them birth/' He never failed to inter- 
est them and hold their affection, for he made 
them feel that he was sincere, and a friend to 
each and every one. 

He was always a favorite among the fair 
sex. He was much sought after, not only 
in Ireland but in England. People said it 
did not seem quite complete to have one to 
share his position. Sometimes there was a 
rumor that he was to wed Eileen. Many 
said that she was worthy of even more if the 
country could give it. Then others said that 
it would be entirely out of her place. Often 
Gerald’s intimate friends joked him about 
the matter, saying he must be usually hard 
to suit when he had not been able to find some 
one. At such remarks he was always silent 
and changed the subject. 

Eileen was spending the summer in Ireland, 
for she had purchased a number of farms 
here and there and had resold them. 
Many said they thought she should have 
given them away. She said they had been 
bought at a very reasonable price and she 
thought the people would appreciate them 
more if they paid for them, and did not like 
to encourage anything that would in any- 
way tend to stop the hand of industry, or 


NEW IRELAND 183 


cause them to think they were in need of 
charity. She took much interest in seeing 
that they were equipped in a modern way and 
managed to provide much that had been 
neglected in the past. 

In the small town of Kinmoor there were 
many small tenement houses, very cheerless 
inside and out, She purchased several and 
had them fitted up in a pleasant, cosey way. 

She often met Gerald and a short time 
after he had taken charge of the government 
he invited her to luncheon. When they had 
finished he asked, ^'Do you care to go through 
the house? I do not think you will find it in 
a very pleasing condition.” 

''Yes, I know, but I shall enjoy it,” ans- 
wered Eileen, who now was greatly interested 
in all remodeling. 

When they had gone through the building 
they went to a library which Gerald had had 
fitted up for his own special use. Eileen re- 
marked that after the improvements were 
completed the building, though not at all 
elegant, would be very compact and service- 
able, ''I must congratulate you on your suc- 
cess.” 

''I think it is more to your credit than mine,” 
he answered. "Are you now satisfied and can 
you at last give me the pleasure of your con- 


184 NEW IRELAND 


stant companionship, which will give me more 
happiness than anything I possess/' 

‘'Yes, Gerald, and I hope the old doubt will 
not return accusing me of being proud and 
ambitious. I must admit I have a certain 
pride which must be considered an excusable 
fault, and whatever position or dignity I 
should acquire would not change me. I am 
a descendant of the old Celtic kings. My 
grandfather was the disinherited heir of the 
earldom that finally came into your father’s 
possession. I am his only son’s daughter.” 

He sat with bowed head for some moments. 
As he arose and stood before her, he said, 
“Child, I always thought I could somewhat 
conceive what an injustice that was, but this 
appeals to me so forcibly that it nearly mad- 
dens me to think of the struggles and hard- 
ships you have endured through an unjust 
decree, and I have made it harder by accusing 
you of being over-ambitious.” 

She smiled, “It was because you were in- 
terested in me that you think thus. It has 
all turned out to be beneficial, not only to me 
but to others. For had I been brought up 
never to feel what others had to endure I 
should not so truly sympathize with them. 
And although I said little to you about being 
especially interested, I was quite anxious to 


NEW IRELAND 185 


have you as I wanted everything commenced 
m a way that would prove to be the best for 
the country. And I think you will try to 
have my wishes realized. Now I must take 
my leave; as usual I have done most of the 
talking.” 

She went in search of her friends and joined 
them as they entered the parlor before taking 
leave. 

One bright October morning Eileen and 
Gerald were married in the little chapel of 
his old family estate, now much reduced as 
he had sold nearly all of it. It was a very 
quiet affair. There was much talk and com- 
ment about the marriage, but all agreed that 
Gerald could not have made a better choice. 
For Eileen was worthy of the position and 
was no more the less kind and considerate 
to all. 

It is Christmas morning and the bells in 
all the churches throughout Erin are ringing 
with a joy and peace that never before was 
realized. In the old and beautiful city of 
Dublin St. Patrick’s magnificent cathedral 
is filled to its utmost capacity. Gerald and 
Eileen sit near the scene of the nativity. 
The interior of the church is impressive. 
Its fine statues, carved marble pillars, and 
high altar with its many lights gleaming 


186 NEW IRELAND 


through the shadows like stars. Eileen is no 
less impressed than in Florence as she be- 
holds the Virgin and the Child, St. Joseph, 
the wise men and the group of angels. She 
kneels in gratitude, thanking the Babe for 
the great work He had enabled His people 
to accomplish, and she is again in Bethlehem 
as the altar boys march in solemn procession 
singing the old Latin hymn. 

Ergo qui natus Die hodierna, 

Jesu tibi sit Gloria: 

Patris aeterni Verbum caro factum. 
Venite adoremus, Venite adoremus, 
Venite adoremus, Dominum. 




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